Blood test apparatus and method of controlling the same

ABSTRACT

A blood test apparatus having a simple constitution whereby stable measurement can be conducted by surely sampling the blood in an amount being small but sufficient for the test without placing too much burden on a patient. When a first skin contact sensor of this apparatus detects the skin, driving of a negative pressure unit is initiated (time point  166   a ). Thus, the skin rises and comes into contact with a second skin contact sensor (time point  166   b ). After piercing into the skin at time point  166   c , the negative pressure supply is once ceased. Next, the negative pressure is applied again at time point  166   d  for a definite period of time. Thus, the opening in the skin is broadened, which facilitates the flow out of the blood ( 16 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a blood test apparatus and its control method used to examine blood components, for example.

BACKGROUND ART

Diabetes patients need to measure the blood sugar level regularly and administer insulin based on the blood sugar level to maintain a normal blood sugar level. To maintain this normal blood sugar level, diabetes patients need to measure the blood sugar level regularly, sample a small amount of blood from fingertips using a blood test apparatus, and measure the blood sugar level from this sampled blood.

The conventional blood test apparatus generally uses a needle as a means for puncturing skin (see Patent Document 1, for example). As shown in FIG. 1, conventional blood test apparatus 1 which uses a needle as a puncturing means, includes: housing 2 that forms a chassis; cylindrical body 3 that is provided at which one side of housing 2 opens; plunger 4 that moves back and forth inside cylindrical body 3; handle 5, one end of which is connected to plunger 4; latch part 6 that latches handle 5 at housing 2; spring 7 that urges handle 5 toward opening part 3 a of cylindrical body 3; lancet 9 which has one end held by plunger 4 and the other end attached with blood collection needle (hereinafter “needle”) 8; holding part 11 that holds blood sensor 10 on the side of opening part 3 a; and electrical circuit section 12 to which output of blood sensor 10 is connected.

To examine blood using conventional blood test apparatus 1, the following preparation works are necessary. Blood sensor 10 and needle 8 are replaced to eliminate the influence of blood which has already examined. To remove blood sensor 10 after use and attach new blood sensor 10, holding part 11 is removed and then blood sensor 10 after use is removed. Next, new blood sensor 10 is attached to holding part 11. Then, holding part 11 is attached to opening part 3 a again. If the neighborhood of holding part 11 is stained with, for example, blood, it is cleaned.

These preparation works are troublesome for diabetes patients with poor eyesight. In addition, these works must be performed several times a day and are burdensome.

After these preparation works are done, blood test apparatus 1 is abutted on the skin of the patient, and the latching of latching part 6 is released. Then, handle 5, urged by spring 7, is propelled in the direction of arrow 14. By this release of latching of handle 5, needle 8, connected to this handle 5 via plunger 4 and lancet 9, is also propelled at the same time. Needle 8 breaks through blood sensor 10 and punctures skin 13.

A small amount of blood 16 flows out from punctured skin 13. The outflow of blood 16 is guided inside blood sensor 10. Blood 16 guided into blood sensor 10 causes chemical changes in blood sensor 10 according to the blood sugar level of the patient. The current produced by the chemical changes is led to electrical circuit section 12, and the blood sugar level is measured. The calculated blood sugar level is displayed on display section 15. Based on the calculated blood sugar level, for example, basic data showing the amount of insulin to administer to the patient is provided.

On the other hand, an apparatus for sampling blood using laser light for the puncturing means, is also proposed (see Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3). Use of laser light provides an advantage of making unnecessary replacement of needle possibly alleviating the pain of the patient upon puncturing. Particularly, Patent Document 2 discloses an apparatus for sampling blood using laser light as a puncturing means and that improves the circulation of blood by sucking in the skin area to be punctured.

-   Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No.     2003-524496 -   Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No.     2004-533866 -   Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No.     2004-195245

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, an effect of stimulating a flow of blood in the punctured area cannot be obtained enough by only sucking in the skin area to be punctured, and there is a case where a desired amount of blood cannot be obtained.

Further, when suction is assumed in the actual applied situation, the following disadvantages become concerns. For example, assuming that skin is sucked using a negative pressure means such as a pump, when blood collection is detected and the negative pressure means stops operating, the patient moves the blood test apparatus or the finger when the operation noise of the negative pressure stops, which may make it impossible to perform measurement after blood collection in a stable manner. Further, when the negative pressure means is made to operate to collect blood, the conditions of skin such as hardness vary between patients, and so the amount of blood collected may become excessive or insufficient depending on the effect (a certain sucking force) of the negative pressure means. If the sucking force is made too large, blood is oversampled and a load is placed on the patient, and, if the sucking force is made too small, it is difficult to collect a small amount of blood required and enough for measurement.

In short, when the actual applied situation is assumed, if suction is controlled only on and off, a small amount of blood required and enough for measurement cannot be collected, and stable measurement cannot be performed without placing a load on the patient. Although it is necessary to perform control more precisely to realize this, researches and developments from this viewpoint have not been undertaken conventionally.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a blood test apparatus and its control method that can collect a small amount of blood required and enough for measurement in a reliable manner and perform stable measurement without placing a load on the patient with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problem

The blood test apparatus of the present invention punctures skin using a laser to collect and measure blood and includes: a laser puncturing section that emits a laser light to puncture the skin; a blood sensor that collects and analyzes the blood flowing out from the punctured skin; a holder that holds the blood sensor; a negative pressure section that creates a negative pressure in a space near the blood sensor; and a negative pressure controlling section that controls an operation of the negative pressure section, and in the blood test apparatus, the negative pressure controlling section changes a level of the negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor using a predetermined pattern, in at least part of a period from when the skin abuts on the holder until when the measurement is complete.

The blood test apparatus of the present invention punctures skin using a laser and collects and measures blood, and includes: a laser puncturing section that emits a laser light to puncture the skin; a blood sensor that collects and analyzes the blood flowing out from the punctured skin; a holder that holds the blood sensor; and a negative pressure section that creates a negative pressure in a space near the blood sensor, and in the blood test apparatus, the negative pressure section drives a manual pump to create the negative pressure.

The controlling method of the present invention is for a blood test apparatus that includes: a laser puncturing section that emits a laser light to puncture skin; a blood sensor that collects and analyzes blood flowing out from the punctured skin; a holder that holds the blood sensor; a negative pressure sect ion that creates a negative pressure in a space near the blood sensor; and a negative pressure controlling section that controls an operation of the negative pressure section, and in the controlling method, in at least part of a period from when the skin abuts on the holder until when measurement is completed, a level of the negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor is changed using a predetermined pattern.

Advantageous Effect of the Invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to collect a small amount of blood required and enough for measurement and perform stable measurement without placing a load on the patient with a simple configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the conventional blood test apparatus;

FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly perspective view showing a first example of a blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an exploded assembly perspective view showing a second example of the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the blood test apparatus of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an exterior perspective view showing an example of a laser emitting apparatus in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the laser emitting apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view showing another configuration example of the laser emitting apparatus of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a partially broken perspective view showing another example of the laser emitting apparatus in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a blood sensor in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the blood sensor in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the blood sensor of FIG. 9 upon puncturing;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing still another example of the blood sensor in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a transparent plan view of the blood sensor of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a transparent plan view showing still another example of the blood sensor in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a transparent plan view showing still another example of the blood sensor in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 15 shows exploded plan views of the blood sensor of FIG. 8, where FIG. 15A shows a plan view of the cover, FIG. 15B shows a plan view of the spacer, and FIG. 15C shows a plan view of the substrate;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a blood sensor unit and its neighborhood in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is an exploded elevation view showing the primary part of a guide part for attaching the blood sensor unit to the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an example of the blood sensor unit in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the primary part of one configuration example showing the neighborhood of the lower end of a holder in the blood sensor unit of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the primary part of another configuration example showing the neighborhood of the lower end of the blood sensor unit in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the primary part of still another example showing the neighborhood of the lower end of the blood sensor unit in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the blood sensor unit of FIG. 18;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the blood sensor unit in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing still another example of the blood sensor unit in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a plan view showing the blood sensor unit of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a graph showing the relationship between the distance from the focal point of laser light to the puncturing target (X axis) and the burn pattern diameter (Y axis), in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the primary part showing an example of a negative pressure chamber and a negative pressure path in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the primary part showing another example of the negative pressure chamber and the negative pressure path in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 29 illustrates the volume of the negative pressure chamber shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 illustrates the volume of the negative pressure chamber shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing an electrical circuit section in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of steps of a test using the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 33A is a cross-sectional view showing individual steps in an example of steps of a test using the blood test apparatus of the present invention more specifically;

FIG. 33B is a cross-sectional view showing individual steps following FIG. 33A;

FIG. 33C is a cross-sectional view showing individual steps following FIG. 33B;

FIG. 33D is a cross-sectional view showing individual steps following FIG. 33C;

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing another example of steps of a test using the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 35 illustrates an example of negative pressure control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 36 schematically shows how skin is lifted by the negative pressure control illustrated in FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 illustrates another example of the negative pressure control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 38 is an exploded assembly perspective view showing an example of the laser perforation apparatus included in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 39 shows an example of laser branch control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 40 illustrates the laser branch control of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a cubic optical device that can be used in the laser branch control of FIG. 39;

FIG. 42 shows examples of a cube that can be used in the laser branch control in FIG. 39, where FIG. 42A shows branch of the laser light using a three-dimensional image, and FIG. 42B shows an example of a cube that realizes the branch;

FIG. 43 shows how a laser light is emitted from an oblique direction and punctures skin with the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 44 shows variations in the shape of emission of the laser light;

FIG. 45 is a schematic view showing another example of laser output control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 46 shows an example of laser pulse control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view showing a puncturing state by the laser pulse control in FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 shows still another examples of the laser output control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention, where FIG. 48A shows a circuit diagram, FIG. 48B shows a time fluctuation of the current inputted to a flashlamp, and FIG. 48C shows a time fluctuation of a laser output;

FIG. 49 shows still another examples of the laser output control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention, where FIG. 49A shows a circuit diagram, FIG. 49B shows a time fluctuation of the current inputted to the flashlamp, and FIG. 49C shows a time fluctuation of the laser output;

FIG. 50 is a block diagram showing a first example of a power supply controlling section of the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a first example of control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 50;

FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a second example of the control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 50;

FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a third example of the control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 50;

FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 50;

FIG. 55 is a block diagram showing a second example of the power supply controlling section of the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing a first example of control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 55;

FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a second example of the control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 55;

FIG. 58 is a block diagram showing a third example of the power supply controlling section of the blood test apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing a first example of control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 58;

FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing a second example of the control steps of the power supply controlling section of FIG. 58;

FIG. 61A is a graph illustrating a method of setting a charge level for charging the laser emitting apparatus stepwise based on the battery level;

FIG. 61B is a graph illustrating a method of setting the charge level for charging the laser emitting apparatus continuously based on the battery level;

FIG. 61C is a graph illustrating a method of setting a charge level for charging the laser emitting apparatus according to a variable curve based on the battery level;

FIG. 62 is a graph showing the relationship between the battery voltage (Y axis) and the battery level (X axis) when the charge level is changed;

FIG. 63 shows another examples of the laser branch control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention, where FIG. 63A shows a case where a laser light is divided into two branches, and FIG. 63B shows a case where a laser light is divided into four branches;

FIG. 64 is a schematic view showing the configuration of an optical fiber directional coupler used in the laser branch control of FIG. 63; and

FIG. 65 shows still another example of the laser branch control in the blood test apparatus of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The blood test apparatus of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Common parts in the figures will be assigned the same reference numerals without further explanations.

Overall View 1 of the Apparatus

FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly perspective view showing a first example of the overall configuration of the blood test apparatus including the laser perforation apparatus of the present invention.

The interior of lower case 32 of blood test apparatus 31 shown in FIG. 2 accommodates components including: laser emitting apparatus 33; negative pressure means 34 which is configured with suction pump (negative pressure pump) 34 a, pump valve unit 34 b and vent switch 34 c; battery 35 which supplies power to electrical components; electrical circuit section 36 which is mounted on these components; and display section 37 which is mounted on electrical circuit section 36, and, for example, made of liquid crystal.

Apparatus body 39 is configured so that upper case 38 covers lower case 32 that accommodates the components. Transparent display window 38 a is provided in upper case 38 in the position corresponding to display section 37.

Apparatus body 39 is connected to blood sensor unit 44 via adapter 40. One end of adapter 40 is a cylinder shaped body, and blood sensor unit 44 is inserted removably into adapter 40. Blood sensor unit 44 is configured with holder 41 and blood sensor 42 attached inside holder 41. Window 43 provided in the center of blood sensor unit 44 is a part for allowing laser light from the laser emitting port of laser emitting apparatus 33 to pass through. Window 43 may be a throughhole or a member formed with a material that allows laser light to pass through.

Overall view 2 of the apparatus FIG. 3 is an exploded assembly perspective view showing a second example of the overall view of the blood test apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 4 is its side view. Blood test apparatus 31 a shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 is different from blood test apparatus 31 shown in FIG. 2 in that the apparatus has a manual pump that can perform suction manually as a negative pressure pump constituting negative pressure means 140. The difference will be described below.

Blood test apparatus 31 a has negative pressure means 140 including manual pump (negative pressure pump) 141 and manual pump knob 142 that drives manual pump 141 manually. Vent switch 144 releases the negative pressure created in pump valve unit 143 to the atmosphere.

Manual pump knob 142 has the shape of an arch, and its one end is made spindle 142 a and the other end is made operating part 142 b (see FIG. 4). Manual pump knob 142 can rotate around spindle 142 a. Operating part 142 b transmits power to manual pump 141. The patient holds manual pump knob 142 with apparatus body 39 and can move operating part 142 b up and down. Manual pump 141 operates in this up-and-down motion, and a negative pressure is created.

To create an adequate negative pressure by the up-and-down motion of operating part 142 b while checking a lift of the skin, the exterior of blood sensor unit 44 is preferably formed with a transparent material so that the interior of negative pressure chamber 60 (see FIG. 16, for example) can be seen. The overall exterior of blood sensor unit 44 may be formed with a transparent material or only the tip 41 h side (the negative pressure chamber 60 side) of blood sensor unit 44 may be formed with a transparent material. Grip part 142 c of manual pump knob 142 may have finger-shaped pattern with indentations and projections to prevent the fingers from slipping.

By driving negative pressure means 140 manually, it is not necessary to supply power for driving negative pressure means 140, which extends the life of battery 35 and makes the apparatus suitable for a portable blood test apparatus.

The First Aspect of the Laser emitting Apparatus (Including a Lens)

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention use laser light as a means for puncturing skin. When the skin is irradiated with laser light, the laser light is absorbed in the OH group of water of skin, heat increases instantaneously and the water evaporates. The surrounding cells also evaporate at this time, thereby opening a hole in the skin.

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a accommodate laser emitting apparatus 33. FIG. 5 is an exterior perspective view of laser emitting apparatus 33 accommodated in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a. Further, FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are cross-sectional views of laser emitting apparatus 33. In FIG. 6A, laser crystal 33 d is arranged in the internal part surrounded by walls where partially reflecting mirror 33 f and total reflection mirror 33 g are provided. In FIG. 6B, laser crystal 33 d has partially reflecting mirror 33 f and total reflection mirror 33 g on both sides and is attached on the outer wall and the inner wall (partition) of cylindrical body 33 b. That is, in FIG. 6B, laser crystal (laser rod) 33 d is long and extends beyond the inner wall (partition).

Laser emitting apparatus 33 is configured with oscillation tube 33 a and cylindrical body 33 b connected to front side of oscillation tube 33 a. Laser emitting port 33 c is provided in the center of the front side of cylindrical body 33 b.

Oscillation tube 33 a accommodates inside Er:YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet) doped with erbium, or Ho:YAG laser crystal 33 d doped with Holmium, and excitation light source 33 e which includes a xenon flashlamp. Partially reflecting mirror 33 f is attached in one end of oscillation tube 33 a (particularly, see FIG. 6A). The transmittance of partially reflecting mirror 33 f may be approximately to 10%. Total reflection mirror 33 g with the transmittance of 99 to 100% is attached to the other end of oscillation tube 33 a (see FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B). Further, instead of using partially reflecting mirror 33 f and total reflection mirror 33 g, films having the same properties may be formed on the end face of laser crystal 33 d by sputtering.

Convex lens (focus lens) 33 h is mounted inside cylindrical body 33 b. Convex lens 33 h focuses laser light near the surface of blood sensor 42 (described in detail later). Total reflection mirror 33 g, YAG laser crystal 33 d, partially reflecting mirror 33 f, lens 33 h and laser emitting port 33 c are arranged in this order.

The process of emitting laser light from laser emitting apparatus 33 will be described. For example, the excitation light emitted from excitation light source 33 e penetrates to Er:YAG laser crystal 33 d and creates a high energy state by exciting Er (erbium) ion. By this means, Er:YAG laser crystal 33 d enters a reverse distribution state, and laser light resonates and is amplified by passing through YAG laser crystal 33 d while reflecting between total reflection mirror 33 g and partially reflecting mirror 33 f. The same applies to the case of Ho (Holmium). Part of the amplified laser light passes through partially reflecting mirror 33 f by stimulated emission. The laser light passing through partially reflecting mirror 33 f passes through lens 33 h and is emitted from laser emitting port 33 c. As described later, the laser light emitted from laser emitting port 33 c punctures (illuminates) the skin.

The Second Aspect of the Laser Emitting Apparatus

FIG. 7 shows another example of the laser emitting apparatus. Laser emitting apparatus 189 shown in FIG. 7 irradiates two kinds of laser crystals with excitation light using one flashlamp 185 as an excitation light source. At this time, laser lights are outputted from the respective laser crystals. Use of two types of crystals enables output of laser lights of different intensities or wavelengths.

As shown in FIG. 7, laser emitting apparatus 189 includes: chassis 188 which has a shape of two overlapping cylindrical bodies having an elliptical cross section; flashlamp 185 for exciting laser light, which is arranged in the center part of chassis 188; and first crystal 186 and second crystal 187 for oscillating laser light, which are arranged at the both sides of flashlamp 185. There are three focuses in elliptical chassis 188. Chassis 188 has a shape of two overlapping ellipses. Each ellipse has two focuses and shares one focus with the other ellipse, so that there are three focuses. Out of the three focuses, first crystal 186 is arranged in one of the focuses, and second crystal 187 is arranged in another focus. Flashlamp 185 is arranged in the center part where two focuses overlap. One flashlamp 185 can generate laser lights from two crystals 186 and 187, so that it is possible to realize a smaller and lower-cost laser emitting apparatus.

The output intensity of the laser light is proportional to the light emitting intensity of the flashlamp 185 and is also proportional to the volumes of crystal 186 and crystal 187. Therefore, by arranging two crystals of the same diameter and different lengths, it is possible to obtain two laser lights of different intensities using one flashlamp 185.

Further, by using crystals of the same volume, it is possible to output two laser lights of the same intensity at a time. Therefore, even if a laser light is not divided into branches (see FIG. 40 and FIG. 41), skin can be punctured with two laser lights of the same intensity. In this case, energy loss due to branching by a splitter and mirror is prevented.

By arranging two crystals of different compositions (for example, an Er:YAG laser crystal with a wavelength of 2.94 μm and an Nd:YAG crystal with a wavelength of 1.06 μm), it is possible to obtain laser lights having different wavelengths. By irradiating the same position with laser lights having different wavelengths, it is possible to make pricks of different depths in skin. For example, the absorption rate of the OH group varies between Er:YAG and Nd:YAG. Therefore, it is possible to make a shallower prick using Er:YAG having a high absorption rate and make a deeper prick using Nd:YAG having a lower absorption rate than Er:YAG. By emitting two laser lights at the same time utilizing these properties, it is possible to make a prick on the skin more efficiently. When the two laser lights are emitted, Er:YAG and Nd:YAG are preferably emitted in this order with a little time lag.

By using laser emitting apparatus 189, it is possible to select the wavelength of the laser light to be used. Further, by irradiating the same position with two kinds of laser lights using an optical system, it is possible to improve output intensity.

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention use laser emitting apparatuses 33 and 189 that can perform puncturing without contacting the skin, as a means for puncturing the skin of the patient, so that a puncturing needle required in the conventional blood test apparatus is not required. Further, blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a use a puncturing means that does not contact the skin of the patient, and so are sanitary. Still further, although it is necessary to replace the puncturing needle every test in the conventional blood test apparatus, the test by blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention does not require this replacement.

Further, blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention do not require moving components for moving a needle required for puncturing with a needle, which reduces troubles. Further, the number of components required in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention is reduced, so that components control becomes simple. Further, by providing a transparent waterproof wall on the front face of laser emitting port 33 c, it is possible to wash the whole of blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a.

The Blood Sensor

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention have a blood sensor taking in blood flowing out from the punctured skin and examining the blood components.

The First Example of the Blood Sensor

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a first example of the blood sensor. Blood sensor 42 shown in FIG. 8 has an outer shape of a round or polygon. Base plate 45 constituting blood sensor 42 has: substrate 46; spacer 47 stacked on the upper face of substrate 46; and cover 48 stacked on the upper face of spacer 47.

Blood storing part 49 is provided near the center of base plate 45. Storing part 49 is formed to communicate with hole 46 a provided in substrate 46 and hole 47 a provided in spacer 47. Storing part 49 opens downward to collect blood from the skin. The volume of storing part 49 is, for example, 0.904 μL, but is by no means particularly limited. One end of supply channel 50 is connected to storing part 49. The volume of supply channel 50 is, for example, 0.144 μL, but is by no means particularly limited. Detecting section 51 is arranged inside supply channel 50.

Blood stored in storing part 49 flows into supply channel 50 by capillary action and is led to detecting section 51. The other end of supply channel 50 is connected to air hole 52. The diameter of air hole 52 may be approximately 50 μm to 250 μm. By making the diameter of air hole 52 small, blood is prevented from overflowing from air hole 52. Further, in a state where storing part 49 is in close contact with the skin, air hole 52 operates as a negative pressure path that creates a negative pressure in storing part 49.

Reagent 53 mounted on detecting section 51 may be prepared as appropriate according to a test target. For example, reagent 53 is prepared by dropping on detecting section 51 arranged on substrate 46 a reagent solution prepared by adding and dissolving an enzyme (PQQ-GDH) of 0.1 to 5.0 U/sensor, potassium ferricyanide (10 to 200 mM), maltitol (1 to 50 mM) and taurine (20 to 200 mM) to a 0.01 to 2.0 wt % aqueous solution of CMC, and drying the reagent solution.

Storing part 49 of blood sensor 42 is sealed with face 49 a (hereinafter, referred to as a “ceiling face”).

The emitted laser light preferably transmits through ceiling face 49 a, because blood flowing out from the skin punctured with laser light does not flow out from ceiling face 49 a. To allow the laser light to transmit through ceiling face 49 a, cover 48 may be formed with the material that allows laser light to transmit (for example, glass, plastic such as polyimide or resin material).

Further, if the emitted laser light cannot transmit through ceiling face 49 a, the laser light may perforate ceiling face 49 a. If the laser light perforates ceiling face 49 a, substrate 46, spacer 47 and cover 48 may be formed with the same material.

The hole formed in ceiling face 49 a can serve as air hole 52, as well as a negative pressure path through which the negative pressure means creates a negative pressure in storing part 49.

The Second Example of the Blood Sensor

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the second example of the blood sensor. While ceiling face 49 a of storing part 49 of blood sensor 42 shown in FIG. 8 is sealed, the ceiling face of storing part 49 of blood sensor 103 shown in FIG. 9 is open.

Hole 103 b is formed in cover 48 of blood sensor 103. Preferably, the diameter of hole 103 b (for example, 1.0 mm) is smaller than the diameter of storing part 49 (for example, 2.0 mm), and is greater than the diameter of air hole 52 (50 μm to 250 μm). Hole 103 b is preferably located in the center of the ceiling face of storing part 49. Laser light passes through hole 103 b and punctures the skin. By providing hole 103 b, it is possible to prevent laser light from declining. It is thereby possible to save energy of laser light to be emitted.

Hole 103 b can serve as air hole 52 as well as a negative pressure path through which negative pressure means 34 and 140 create a negative pressure in storing part 49.

As shown in FIG. 10, the surface tension of blood 16 generated inside hole 103 b prevents blood 16 collected by puncturing the skin from overflowing out from the upper face of the cover. Blood 16 spreads inside storing part 49. Therefore, it is possible to collect an adequate amount of blood 16. Blood 16 that fills storing part 49 flows into supply channel 50 by capillary action.

If hole 103 b is water-repellent, blood 16 is less likely to overflow through hole 103 b. Therefore, the interior of blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a is not contaminated with blood.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) can be used as the material of cover 48 of blood sensor 103, and the same material as substrate 46 and spacer 47 can be used. Therefore, material control is simple.

Laser light passes through hole 103 b of storing part 49. Laser light may pass through the center of hole 103 b or pass through a position off the center of hole 103 b. For example, by making laser light pass through a farther position from supply channel 50 across the center of hole 103 b, blood 16 flowing out from skin 13 fills the interior of storing part 49 completely, and then flows into supply channel 50, so that it is possible to realize accurate measurement of blood 16.

Hole 103 b is formed in advance in the ceiling face of storing part 49 of blood sensor 103. In this way, hole 103 b is formed in advance, so that it is not necessary to adjust the axis of the laser light to part to be perforated. Therefore, blood sensor 103 is easily attached to blood sensor unit 44. Hole 103 b may be made small, approximately 0.05 to 0.25 mm, and preferably prevents blood 16 from flowing out through the puncturing hole.

As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, blood sensors 42 and 103 in blood test apparatus 31 and 31 a of the present invention preferably have storing part 49 and supply channel 50. The inner wall surface of supply channel 50 is preferably hydrophilic, so that blood is sent smoothly to supply channel 50 where detecting section 51 is arranged. Further, the inner wall surface of supply channel 50 is preferably more hydrophilic than the inner wall surface of storing part 49, so that blood stored in storing part 49 is supplied to supply channel 50 smoothly.

Further, blood sensors 42 and 103 in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention has cover 48 as shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, and cover 48 forms the ceiling face of storing part 49. Upper faces 48 a and 103 a (faces irradiated with laser light) of cover 48 are preferably water-repellent. More practically, upper faces 48 a and 103 a of cover 48 are preferably more water-repellent than the inner wall surface of storing part 49, so that blood stored in storing part 49 is prevented from flowing out through the hole (the hole perforated with laser light or hole 103 b) formed on cover 48.

The Third Example of the Blood Sensor

The wetness of skin 13 of the patient varies depending on the environment.

On the other hand, skin 13 to be punctured with laser light preferably has a certain level of moisture content. Therefore, by moistening the neighborhood of skin 13 before puncturing with laser light, a certain level of wetness is preferably maintained by giving a certain level of moisture content to skin 13, so that measurement is performed in a stable condition.

FIG. 11 shows blood sensor 42 a provided with water storing part 195 that stores water, on the lower face side that abuts on skin 13, of blood sensor 42 (see FIG. 8 in detail). When laser light is emitted or when the skin is lifted by negative pressure means 34 and 140 before laser light is emitted, water storing part 195 of blood sensor 42 a shown in FIG. 11 breaks to splash a certain amount of water on skin 13 and moisten the skin. Water storing part 195 may be, for example, a container which contains water and which is made of a plastic material such as PET, a soft bag, or a sponge or a spongy member that is soaked with water. Water storing part 195 is preferably not arranged in transmission part 196 through which laser light transmits, because the intensity of the laser light is reduced by water.

Transparent Plan View 1 of the Blood Sensor

FIG. 12 is a transparent plan view of blood sensor 42. In blood sensor 42, detection electrodes 54 to 57 are arranged, and in order from storing part 49 toward air hole 52, detection electrode 57 (Hct (hematocrit) electrode), detection electrode 56 (counter electrode), detection electrode 54 (active electrode) and detection electrode 55 (sensing electrode) are arranged. Detection electrodes 54 to 56 are arranged in detecting section 51.

Detection electrodes 54 to 57 are connected to connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a, respectively. Connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a extend up to the outer periphery of substrate 46. Contact parts 54 b to 57 b are provided in connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a, respectively. Further, in connection electrode 56 a, contact part 56 c is also provided in addition to contact part 56 b, that is, two contact parts are formed. Reference electrode 56 d may be provided in connection electrodes (54 a, 55 a or 57 a) other than connection electrode 56 a.

Contact parts 54 b to 57 b and contact part 56 c are arranged near the outer periphery of sensor 42 at virtually regular intervals.

Out of contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c, contact part 56 b and contact part 56 c electrically conduct with each other, and the other contact parts are insulated from each other.

The connection electrodes can be specified using contact part 56 c as a reference contact part, that is, reference electrode 56 d. That is, the insulation resistance between the neighboring contact parts is measured by electrical circuit section 36 (see FIG. 2), and a contact part where the insulation resistance is zero is identified as reference electrode 56 d. Based on reference electrode 56 d, connection electrodes 56 a, 57 a, 54 a and 55 a are specified clockwise.

In this way, blood sensor 42 has reference electrode 56 d, so that it is possible to specify the connection electrodes. Therefore, even if the contact parts (54 b to 57 b and 56 c) are connected casually to the five connectors arranged in apparatus body 39, it is possible to specify the connection electrodes and perform measurement. Accordingly, blood sensor 42 (or blood sensor unit 44 including blood sensor 42) can be made in a symmetrical shape so that blood sensor 42 can be attached to apparatus body 39 casually in a very simple manner.

Aligning concave part 46 c may be provided on the outer periphery of substrate 46. Corresponding to aligning concave part 46 c, on the outer peripheries of spacer 47 and cover 48, aligning concave parts 47 c and 48 c are provided. By using aligning concave parts 46 c to 48 c, blood sensor 42 can be attached to blood sensor unit 44 so as to meet a predetermined alignment of blood sensor unit 44.

Transparent Plan View 2 of the Blood Sensor

FIG. 13 is a transparent plan view of a round blood sensor. Blood sensor 101 shown in FIG. 13 is different from blood sensor 42 (see FIG. 12) in that reference electrode 56 d is formed via a predetermined pattern from connection electrode 56 a. The difference will be mainly described below.

Reference contact part 56 c is provided in reference electrode 56 d. Reference contact part 56 c and contact parts 54 b to 57 b are arranged near the outer periphery at regular intervals. That is, contact parts 54 b, 55 b, 56 b, 56 c and 57 b are arranged at the apexes of a regular pentagon.

Connection electrode 56 a and reference electrode 56 d are connected via laser-machined pattern 56 e. By changing the width of pattern 56 e, the resistance value between contact part 56 b and reference contact part 56 c can be changed. Reference electrode 56 d serves as a reference for specifying the positions of connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a.

Reference electrode 56 d can be utilized to identify the product specifications of blood sensor 101. For example, the blood test apparatus is set so that calibration curve 1 is used when the resistance value of pattern 56 e is 200 to 1000 ohms, calibration curve 2 is used when the resistance value is 1000 to 2000 ohms, and calibration curve 3 is used when the resistance value is 2000 to 3000 ohms, the calibration curve of the sensor is recognized automatically, and the blood sugar level is measured using an appropriate calibration curve.

The reference electrode can be used to identify various product specifications, in addition to use in automatic recognition of the calibration curve. For example, the reference electrode can be used to identify the users to whom the product is shipped, and to identify whether the product has the specifications for company A or the specifications for company B.

By forming an inductance using pattern 56 e, which may have various values depending on pattern 56 e, connecting this inductance to a resonator constituting an oscillator and changing the oscillation frequency according to these inductance values, various information is provided.

By providing reference electrode 56 d, even when blood sensor unit 44 is attached to blood test apparatus 31 or 31 a at an arbitrary rotation angle with respect to the axis of the attaching direction, connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a can be specified. Therefore, when blood sensor unit 44 is attached, the attaching direction does not have to be adjusted with visual checking, so that it is possible to attach blood sensor unit 44 in a simple manner.

Transparent Plan View 3 of the Blood Sensor

FIG. 14 is a transparent plan view of a square-shaped blood sensor. Although the outer shape of blood sensor 102 shown in FIG. 14 is a square, the outer shape may be a polygonal such as a hexagon and octagon. By forming blood sensor 102 in a square or hexagonal shape, the material yield is improved. Further, as shown in FIG. 14, concave part 102 a for aligning blood sensor unit 44 may be provided in one of the four sides of blood sensor 102, in such a case blood sensor 102 has an asymmetrical shape. Concave part 102 a serves as the reference when blood sensor 102 is attached to blood sensor unit 44. Further, by aligning adapter 40 using as a reference convex part 130 f (see FIG. 25) in the blood sensor unit 44 side that engages with concave part 102 a, the positions of connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a can be specified even if reference electrode 56 d is not provided.

Contact parts 54 b to 57 b are provided in the corners of square-shaped substrate 102 b. Spacer 102 c and cover 102 d are stacked on substrate 102 b. Substrate 102 b corresponds to substrate 46, spacer 102 c corresponds to spacer 47, cover 102 d corresponds to cover 48 (see FIG. 8).

An Exploded Plan View of the Blood Sensor

An assembly and material of blood sensor 42 (see FIG. 8) provided in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 15 is an exploded plan view of blood sensor 42. FIG. 15A is a plan view of cover 48, FIG. 15B is a plan view of spacer 47, and FIG. 15C is a plan view of substrate 46.

FIG. 15C is a plan view of round substrate 46 constituting blood sensor 42. The diameter of substrate 46 may be approximately 8.0 mm. The material of substrate 46 is resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and its thickness may be 0.075 to 0.250 mm (for example, 0.188 mm).

On the upper face of substrate 46, detection electrodes 54 to 57, and connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a derived from respective detection electrodes 54 to 57 are formed in an integrated manner. These detection electrodes and connection electrodes may be formed by applying laser processing to a conductive layer which is formed using the sputtering method or the vapor deposition method. The material of the conductive layer may be gold, platinum, or palladium.

The diameter of hole 46 a provided near the center of substrate 46 may be approximately 2.0 mm. Preferably, the wall surface of hole 46 a is less hydrophilic than supply channel 50 or is less water-repellent than upper face 48 a of cover 48.

Hole 46 a is preferably formed by punching out substrate 46 from the detection electrodes 54 to 57 side using a convex mold, because it is less likely to damage detection electrodes 54 to 57 if the punching is performed from the detection electrodes 54 to 57 side. Further, even if a burr is produced in hole 46 a by this punching, the burr is oriented downward (toward the skin). Therefore, blood 16 is prevented from flowing out from storing part 49. Concave part 46 c for aligning provided on the outer periphery of substrate 46 engages with a aligning convex part formed in cylindrical body 41 e of blood sensor unit 44 (see FIG. 16). The position where blood sensor 42 is attached to blood sensor unit 44 is thereby determined.

FIG. 15B is a plan view of spacer 47. The diameter of spacer 47 may be approximately 5.2 mm. The material of spacer 47 is resin such as polyethylene terephthalate, and its thickness may be 0.025 to 0.25 mm (for example, 0.1 mm).

The diameter of hole 47 a provided near the center of spacer 47 is 2.0 mm, and hole 47 a is provided at the position corresponding to hole 46 a provided in substrate 46. Preferably, the wall surface of hole 47 a is less hydrophilic than supply channel 50 or is less water-repellent than upper face 48 a of cover 48. Storing part 49 is constituted with hole 46 a and hole 47 a.

Slit 47 b is formed toward the outer periphery from hole 47 a. Slit 47 b serves as blood supply channel 50. The wall surface of slit 47 b and the upper face of substrate 46 corresponding to the wall surface of slit 47 b are subjected to hydrophilicity treatment. The width of slit 47 b may be approximately 0.6 mm, and the length may be approximately 2.4 mm. As a result, the volume of supply channel 50 is approximately 0.144 μL.

Therefore, by making the volume of supply channel 50 small, test can be performed with a small amount of blood, so that the load on the patient becomes small and the patient does not feel fear.

Concave part 47 c for aligning provided on the outer periphery of spacer 47 is formed in the position corresponding to concave part 46 c for aligning provided in substrate 46.

FIG. 15A is a plan view of cover 48. The diameter of cover 48 may be approximately 5.2 mm. The thickness of cover 48 may be approximately 0.050 to 0.125 mm (for example, 0.075 mm).

Cover 48 can be made of a material that does not absorb laser light. Examples of the material of cover 48 include glass and plastic such as polyimide. when laser light is not absorbed in cover 48, the laser light can pass through ceiling face 49 a of storing part 49 to puncture the skin. The laser light does not perforate ceiling face 49 a, and so blood 16 does not flow out through the hole, nor it flows into apparatus body 39.

Cover 48 may be made of a material that absorbs laser light. In this case, cover 48 may be perforated by the emitted laser light, or before the laser light is emitted, a hole through which the laser light passes may be formed in cover 48.

Air hole 52 is provided to meet the tip part of supply channel 50. The diameter of air hole 52 is 50 μm.

Upper face 48 a (see FIG. 8) of cover 48 that forms the upper face of substrate 45 is preferably subjected to water-repellency treatment. The ceiling face of supply channel 50 is preferably subjected to hydrophilicity treatment. Further, preferably, ceiling face 49 a of storing part 49 is subjected to weaker hydrophilicity treatment than supply channel 50 or is subjected to weaker water-repellency treatment than upper face 48 a of cover 48.

Hydrophilicity may be reduced by, for example, removing the hydrophilizing agent applied on a hydrophobic material to increase hydrophobicity. The hydrophilizing agent is removed by, for example, decomposing the hydrophilizing agent through UV (ultraviolet ray) irradiation. The hydrophobic material can be directly used as the material of ceiling face 49 a of storing part 49.

The material may be made water-repellent by mixing a water-repellent agent in the material. Further, the material may be made water-repellent by applying an appropriate amount of water-repellent agent on the surface of the hydrophilic material. The level of water-repellency may be adjusted by adjusting the amount of the water-repellent agent to be mixed.

The hydrophilicity or water-repellency of the components of blood sensor 42 can be adjusted as follows.

Upper face 48 a of cover 48 is subjected to water-repellency treatment in advance. On the other hand, the overall lower face of cover 48 is subjected to hydrophilicity treatment. The lower face of cover 48 includes the ceiling face of supply channel 50. Next, substrate 46, spacer 47 and cover 48 are stacked. After substrate 46, spacer 47 and cover 48 are stacked, the hydrophilizing agent of ceiling face 49 e may be dissolved and removed by radiating short-wavelength UV from the opening of storing part 49.

By manufacturing blood sensor 42 as described above, it is possible to make upper face 48 a of cover 48 water-repellent and make the inner face of supply channel hydrophilic. Further, the inner face of storing part 49 may be less hydrophilic than supply channel 50 and less water-repellent than upper face 48 a.

The ratio of the thickness of substrate 46 (0.188 mm), the thickness of spacer 47 (0.100 mm) and the thickness of cover 48 (0.075 mm) is approximately, 2.5:1.3:1. By this means, it is possible to form storing part 49 that can pool a sufficient amount of blood while making blood sensor 42 thinner. Further, by the thickness of spacer 47 (0.100 mm), the effect of capillary action in supply channel 50 can be obtained sufficiently.

In blood sensor 42, the ratio of the volume of storing part 49 (0.904 μL) and the volume of supply channel (0.144 μL) may be approximately 6:1, but the ratio is not particularly limited. By this means, test does not become incorrect, even when the amount of blood 16 is small. Further, the volume of storing part 49 is not too large with respect to the needed volume of supply channel 50, and a large amount of blood 16 does not flow into supply channel 50 and does not wash away reagent 53 (see FIG. 8). Therefore, the rate of flow of blood 16 becomes constant, which does not generate variation in concentration of reagent 53, so that it is possible to examine blood 16 accurately.

Further, the amount of blood 16 to be collected is set a very small amount which is a sufficient amount required for a test of blood 16, and only blood 16 of about six times the volume of supply channel 50 is collected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the load on the patient significantly. In view of the collection amount of blood 16 for accurate measurement and the collection amount of blood 16 for reducing the load on the patient, the volume of storing part 49 is preferably more than five times and less than seven times the volume of supply channel 50.

The Blood Sensor Unit

Blood sensor 41 in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention may be included in blood sensor unit 44. Blood sensor unit 44 can be attached to and removed from apparatus body 39 and is a replaceable member.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of blood sensor unit 44 and the neighborhood of blood sensor unit 44. The cross section of blood sensor unit 44 is configured in the shape of “H” by cylinder-shaped holder 41 that opens upward and downward, and attaching part 41 b that is provided so as to seal the interior of holder 41.

The material of holder 41 is preferably resin that is applicable to injection molding, including ABS resin, AS resin and thermoplastic resin such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate, or thermosetting resin such as phenol resin, epoxide resin and silicon resin.

Blood sensor 42 is attached to attaching part 41 b. Blood sensor 42 can be attached and removed. Although, in FIG. 16, blood sensor 42 is attached to an upper side (the laser emitting apparatus 33 side) of attaching part 41 b, blood sensor 42 may be attached to a lower side (the punctured skin 13 side) of attaching part 41 b.

In the center of attaching part 41 b, window 43 is preferably provided so as to correspond to storing part 49. The area of the opening part of window 43 is preferably larger than the area of the opening part of storing part 49. Further, negative pressure path 41 c passing through the upper side and the lower side of attaching part 41 b is provided. Negative pressure path 41 c may be provided, for example, between the outer periphery of blood sensor 42 and the inner periphery of holder 41.

Cylindrical body 41 d located below attaching part 41 b forms negative pressure chamber 60 between skin 13 and cylindrical body 41 d. Further, the inner wall of cylindrical body 41 e located above attaching part 41 b of blood sensor unit 44 is latched outside adapter 40.

Connector 61 is provided inside adapter 40. Connector 61 includes a plurality of (for example, five) individual connectors 61 a to 61 e. When blood sensor unit 44 is attached to adapter 40, connectors 61 a to 61 e contact with contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c of blood sensor 42, respectively. Signals of connectors 61 a to 61 e are led to electrical circuit section 36.

First skin contact sensor 62 provided at tip 41 h of cylindrical body 41 d detects skin 13 when blood sensor unit 44 abuts on skin 13. First skin contact sensor 62 also connects to connection part 62 c provided in adapter 40 via conductor 62 a arranged inside holder 41, and further connects to conductor 62 b at the adapter 40 side. Conductor 62 b is led to electrical circuit section 36.

First skin contact sensor 62 configured with a plurality of (for example, two) conductors are preferably provided in different parts in tip 41 h of cylindrical body 41 d (in FIG. 16, on a straight line that passes the center of cylindrical body 41 d). By measuring the resistance value between two conductors of first skin contact sensor 62, skin 13 is detected when blood sensor unit 44 abuts on skin 13. Therefore, it is possible to detect skin 13 when the tips of blood sensor unit 44 abut on skin 13 completely without space. Laser light is preferably not allowed to emit unless first skin contact sensor 62 detects a contact with the skin. First skin contact sensor 62 may be a mechanical micro switch or a reflection optical switch.

By emitting laser light from laser emitting apparatus 33, blood capillaries in skin 13 are damaged by the laser light, and blood 16 flows out. The outflow of blood 16 is stored in storing part 49.

A guide part for attaching blood sensor unit 44 in a simple manner may be provided in cylindrical body 41 d and adapter 40 of blood sensor unit 44. FIG. 17 is an exploded elevation view of the primary part of guide part 63 that guides insertion of blood sensor unit 44 into adapter 40. Convex part 41 f is formed inside cylindrical body 41 d, and convex part 40 f is formed outside adapter 40. Tip part 41 g and tip part 40 g, which are the tips of convex part 41 f and convex part 40 f, respectively, are made sharp. Tip part 41 g and tip part 40 f face each other. Convex part 40 f and its tip part 40 g, and convex part 41 f and its tip part 41 g, constitute guide part 63.

When blood sensor unit 44 is inserted into adapter 40, even when the positions of blood sensor unit 44 and adapter 40 are out of predetermined alignment, blood sensor unit 44 is inserted along guide part 63 while correcting the course (see arrow 64). As a result, connectors 61 a to 61 e provided in adapter 40 are sure to contact with one of contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c provided in sensor 42. Therefore, blood sensor unit 44 can be inserted without taking into account the rotation angle with respect to the axis of the insertion direction, so that blood sensor unit 44 can be attached in a simple manner.

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the blood sensor unit. Blood sensor unit 110 shown in FIG. 18 may have the same structure as blood sensor unit 44 unless described otherwise. Blood sensor unit 110 has the shape of a cylinder, and its cross section has the shape of “H.” Five connectors 111 that transmit signals of the contact part of the blood sensor (one of blood sensors 42, 101, 102 and 103) to electrical circuit section 36 may be provided inside holder 110 a of blood sensor unit 110 (in the case of blood sensor 102, four connectors may be provided). Connector 111 connects to adapter 40 at an upper end of holder 110 a and is led to electrical circuit section 36 via this adapter 40.

Connector 111 may be provided in the adapter and may be connected with the contact part of the blood sensor of blood sensor unit 110.

Blood sensor 42 is attached on the reverse side (the side of lower end 110 h, that is, the side the punctured skin is arranged) of attaching part 110 b provided so as to seal the opening of holder 110 a. Window 110 c provided near the center of attaching part 110 b is provided so as to correspond to the position of storing part 49 of blood sensor 42. Laser light passes through window 110 c and storing part 49 and punctures skin 13.

Air hole 110 d provided in attaching part 110 b is provided in the position corresponding to air hole 52 of blood sensor 42. Air hole 110 d is provided to flow blood 16 into supply channel 50 of blood sensor 42 or create a negative pressure in storing part 49.

Blood sensor unit 110 engages with adapter 40 using the elasticity of engaging part 110 e which engages with adapter 40. Two engaging parts 110 e that face each other are provided in holder 110 a. Engaging parts 110 e have slits on both sides and thereby have elasticity, and are formed integrated with holder 110 a. Therefore, engaging parts 110 e can be made at a low cost.

Deodorizing member storage 110 f is provided on the upper face of attaching part 110 b in a concentric fashion. A deodorizing member is placed on deodorizing member storage 110 f. When the skin is punctured with laser light, cases occur where skin 13 is carbonized and produces an odor. This odor can be deodorized with the deodorizing member (such as deodorant agent). Further, blood pool 110 f is provided on the upper face of attaching part 110 b in a concentric fashion. Therefore, even if blood 16 overflows from hole 103 b of blood sensor 103 (see FIG. 10), blood 16 stays in blood pool 110 g, so that it is possible to prevent blood 16 from contaminating the body part of blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the primary part of one configuration example near lower end 110 h of holder 110 a. An end part of lower end 110 h abuts on skin 13 of the patient and forms negative pressure chamber 60. Lower end 110 h needs to closely contact with skin 13. Therefore, lower end 110 h may be formed with two concentric lines 110 j which are made sharp at an acute angle. Line 110 j abuts on skin 13 completely by line contact, so that negative pressure chamber 60 is kept sealed. The number of lines 110 j does not have to be two, and there may be one or a plurality of lines 110 j.

Further, if capillary action is given to a groove formed between two concentric lines 110 j, over-sampled blood 16 after measurement is sucked in the groove. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare paper for wiping off over-sampled blood 16.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the primary part of another configuration example near lower end 110 h of holder 110 a. Concentric abutting part 110 k formed with elasticity such as rubber, silicon, urethane and a sponge, is formed in lower end 110 h. Therefore, abutting part 110 k is in close contact with skin 13 by its elasticity, and negative pressure chamber 60 is kept sealed. The contact surface of abutting part 110 k is preferably flat to increase the area where abutting part 110 k abuts on skin 13.

By forming abutting part 110 k with an absorbing member, such as a sponge, that has absorbency, it is possible to wipe off over-sampled blood 16 flown out by puncturing after measurement. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare wiping paper. Further, if an antiseptic is added to the absorbing member, the absorbing member becomes sanitary.

The wetness of skin 13 changes with the external environment such as seasons. Therefore, the wetness near skin 13 to be punctured is preferably maintained constant. Therefore, before puncturing, measurement may be performed in a stable condition by providing an adequate level of moisture content to skin 13 and moistening the skin.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 21, it is also possible to provide water storing part 197 which is soaked with water, throughout the perimeter of lower end 110 h of holder 110 a of blood sensor unit 110, soak skin 13 near the part to be punctured with water in advance and puncture skin 13 with laser light. Water storing part 197 may be a porous material that has elasticity such as a sponge.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of blood sensor unit 110. As shown in FIG. 22, blood sensor 42 is arranged in the lower face of attaching part 110 b of blood sensor unit 110 and is held by attaching part 110 b. Skin 13 is lifted by negative pressure means 34 and 140 (see FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) and is in close contact with blood sensor 42. Blood sensor 42 is held by attaching part 110 b, and so is less likely to be distorted by skin 13 that is in close contact with blood sensor 42. Connectors 111 contact with contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c of blood sensor 42. Guide part 63 (see FIG. 17) for adapter 40 is preferably provided in holder 110 a.

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention has negative pressure means 34 and 140, and negative pressure means 34 and 140 create a negative pressure inside blood sensor unit 110. As a negative pressure path, groove 110 f may be formed in attaching part 110 b of blood sensor unit 110. Groove 110 f extends to window 110 e formed near the center of attaching part 110 b, from the outer periphery side of attaching part 110 b of holder 110 a. When a negative pressure is created, a negative pressure is also created in groove 110 f, and blood sensor 42 is in close contact with attaching part 110 b. When the negative pressure is released to the atmosphere, blood sensor 42 is removed from attaching part 110 b.

Connectors 111 contact with blood sensor 42 in contact surface 111 a. Connectors 111 are incorporated in holder 110 a and formed so as to cut into part of attaching part 110 b. By this means, the contact parts of the connection electrodes formed on the upper face of blood sensor 42 connect with contact parts (not shown) provided in connectors 111.

Second skin contact sensor 110 m may be provided in the lower face of blood sensor 42. By this means, skin 13 is detected when skin 13 abuts on second skin contact sensor 110 m by the negative pressure generated in negative pressure chamber 60. Second skin contact sensor 110 m may be, for example, configured with a counter electrode. Laser light emission is preferably not allowed unless second skin contact sensor 110 m detects a contact with the skin.

Negative pressure means 34 may stop creating a negative pressure in negative pressure chamber 60 when second skin contact sensor 110 m is detected to abut on skin 13. By controlling negative pressure means 34 in this way, negative pressure means 34 can be controlled without wasting a negative pressure power.

Further, first skin contact sensor 62 may be provided in lower end 110 h of holder 110 a.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of another blood sensor unit. Blood sensor unit 120 shown in FIG. 23 may have the same structure as blood sensor unit 110 unless described otherwise. Blood sensor unit 120 is different from blood sensor unit 110 in that blood sensor 42 is mounted on the upper side of attaching part 120 b formed so as to seal the opening of holder 120 a. Connectors 61 connected to electrical circuit section 36 conduct with contact parts (54 b to 57 b and 56 c) of blood sensor 42.

The upper space and the lower space in attaching part 120 b of blood sensor unit 120 having an H-shaped cross section, communicate through negative pressure path 120 c. The lower space forms negative pressure chamber 60. First skin contact sensor 62 is provided in lower end 120 h of holder 120 a. Further, although not shown, second skin contact sensor 120 m may be provided in the lower face of attaching part 120 b.

By attaching blood sensor 42 on the upper face of attaching part 120 b, it is possible to increase contact pressures between connectors 61 and the contact parts (54 b to 57 b and 56 c) of blood sensor 42 larger. Further, it is possible to attach blood sensor 42 to attaching part 120 b in a simple manner.

Separated by blood sensor 42 and attaching part 120 b, the space on the side of apparatus body 39 (the upper space in the figure) and the space on the side of skin 13 (the lower space in the figure), communicate with each other via negative pressure path 120 c. On creating a negative pressure on skin 13, it is possible to create a negative pressure in the space on the side of skin 13 via this negative pressure path 120 c. Further, when a negative pressure is released to the atmosphere, air flows into space on the side of apparatus body 39 quickly via negative pressure path 120 c. Therefore, it is possible to prevent blood led in blood sensor 42 from dispersing on the apparatus body 39 side.

Groove 120 f may be formed on the upper side of attaching part 120 b as a negative pressure path. Groove 120 f extends from the outer periphery of attaching part 120 b of holder 120 a to window 120 e formed near the center of attaching part 120 b. Providing groove 120 f makes it unnecessary to provide a hole (negative pressure path 120 c) which penetrates attaching part 120 b.

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of another blood sensor unit. Blood sensor unit 130 shown in FIG. 24 may have the same structure as blood sensor unit 44 unless described otherwise. Here, blood sensor 42 is attached on the upper face of attaching part 130 b of blood sensor unit 130. The inner diameter of lower end 130 d of holder 130 a is smaller than the inner diameter of upper end 130 c.

The diameter of opening part 130 e of negative pressure chamber 60 formed on the lower side of attaching part 130 b is preferably 2 to 20 mm, more preferably, 3 to 10 mm, and, even more preferably, 5 to 7 mm, so that a negative pressure is created on the skin to be punctured more efficiently. Further, by making the outer shape of lower end 130 d smaller than the outer shape of upper end 130 c, it is possible to stack a plurality of blood sensor units 130 vertically and accommodate blood sensor units 130 efficiently. Generally, blood sensor 42 needs to have a certain size, and so the outer shape of upper end 130 c is difficult to be made smaller.

Further, locking convex part 130 g provided inside holder 130 a so as to project toward blood sensor 42, latches blood sensor 42 and prevents blood sensor 42 from being removed from holder 130 a.

FIG. 25 is a plan view of blood sensor unit 130. Two convex parts 130 f that fit concave parts 46 c and 47 c (see FIG. 15) for aligning blood sensor 42 are formed in holder 130 a of blood sensor unit 130 (at an angle of approximately 120 degrees). The position where blood sensor 42 is arranged in blood sensor unit 130 is determined by convex part 130 f of holder 130 a and concave part 46 c of blood sensor 42. Blood sensor unit 130 where blood sensor 42 is arranged adequately is attached to adapter 40 in a predetermined position by guide part 63 (see FIG. 17). In this way, signals of detection electrodes 54 to 57 of blood sensor 42 are transmitted to electrical circuit section 36.

There may be one convex part 130 f, but, in that case, attaching part 130 b preferably has a structure that allows blood sensor 42 to be fit in.

The Focus of Laser Light

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention uses laser light as a puncturing means, and, laser emitting apparatus 33 is accommodated in apparatus body 39 (see FIG. 2, for example). The emitted laser light is focused by a focus lens and emitted on skin 13. In blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention, laser light is preferably focused near the surface of blood sensor 42, for example. As described above, skin 13 to be punctured is sucked in by negative pressure means 34 and 140 and is in close contact with blood sensor 42, so that the laser light focused near the surface of blood sensor 42 can puncture skin 13 effectively.

The focus of the laser light may be on the surface of blood sensor 42, and may be closer to skin 13 than the surface of blood sensor 42 or closer to laser emitting apparatus 33 than the surface of blood sensor 42. FIG. 26 shows a result of examining using a laser alignment paper (ZAP-IT corporation: Z-48), the relationship between the “burn pattern diameter (mm)” (Y axis) and the “distance (mm) from the laser focus to the target to be punctured (the puncturing target, which in this case is the laser alignment paper)” (X axis). The “burn pattern diameter” is the diameter of the hole which is opened when laser light is emitted.

FIG. 26 is a graph showing the relationship between the distance (X axis) from the focus position of laser light to the puncturing target and the burn pattern diameter (Y axis), in the blood test apparatus of the present invention.

In the X axis in the graph shown in FIG. 26, “0” is the focus position of laser light. The negative (“−”) domain applies to cases where the position of the puncturing target is set closer to laser emitting apparatus 33 than the focus position of laser light, and the positive (“+”) domain applies to cases where the position of the puncturing target is set farther from laser emitting apparatus 33 than the focus position of laser light.

The laser output intensity includes four types of 60 mJ, 80 mJ, 100 mJ and 120 mJ. Although the burn pattern diameter becomes greater in proportion to the output intensity, the relationship between the distance (X) from the focus to the puncturing target and the burn pattern diameter (Y) is similar between all output intensities.

In zone A (when the focus is adjusted near the puncturing target), even when the position of the puncturing target shifts somewhat, the burn pattern diameter does not change significantly. Therefore, it is possible to puncture the skin reliably. On the other hand, in zone B or zone C, the burn pattern diameter changes significantly by the shift of the position of the puncturing target. In a case that the focus position of laser light shifts, the burn pattern diameter change in the same manner, because the focus position of laser light has a relative relationship with the position of the puncturing target.

That is, when the position of the puncturing target is fixed, for example, in zone A (when the focus is adjusted near the puncturing target), even if the focus position of laser light shifts somewhat, the burn pattern diameter does not change significantly. Therefore, it is possible to puncture the skin reliably. On the other hand, in zone B or zone C, when the focus position of laser light shifts, the burn pattern diameter changes significantly.

If the focus position of laser light shifts so as to increase the burn pattern diameter, the skin is not punctured, so that safety improves. For example, if the focus position of laser light is adjusted in zone B, unless the position of the puncturing target approaches the position from which the laser light is emitted, up to a predetermined position, the skin is not punctured. That is, unless the skin is sucked in and lifted sufficiently by a negative pressure, the skin is not punctured.

By adjusting the focus position of the laser light in zone C, when the position of the puncturing target comes closer to the position from which the laser light is emitted, than a predetermined position, the skin is not punctured. That is, even if the skin is sucked in and lifted more than necessary by a negative pressure, the skin is not punctured.

Further, when a film prone to melt is arranged in blood sensor 42, there is a case where the focus is not preferably adjusted on blood sensor 42, because the film melts and energy of laser light is consumed. Therefore, there is a case where the focus is preferably adjusted in zone B or zone C.

The Negative Pressure Chamber

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention has negative pressure means 34 and 140, and, apparatus body 39 accommodates mechanical suction pump 34 a (FIG. 2) or manual suction pump 141 (FIG. 3) as one component of negative pressure means 34 and 140. Negative pressure means 34 and 140 create a negative pressure in negative pressure chamber 60 and suck in and lift skin 13, which is the part to be punctured, thereby placing skin 13 in close contact with blood sensor 42.

As described above, negative pressure means 34 is configured with suction pump 34 a, pump valve unit 34 b and vent switch 34 c (see FIG. 2). Negative pressure means 140 is configured with manual pump 141 and manual pump knob 142 in addition to pump valve unit 143 and vent switch 144 (see FIG. 3). In a broad sense, the term “negative pressure means” includes the negative pressure path in addition to the pump (a suction pump or a negative pressure pump) and the valve (a negative pressure valve or an open valve). Further, here, “driving the negative pressure means” means driving the pump and the valve, and “releasing the negative pressure” means opening the valve and introducing an outside atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure).

FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 show a negative pressure chamber (suction chamber) and a negative pressure path. FIG. 27 shows a negative pressure path for a case where the negative pressure chamber is the largest, and FIG. 28 shows a negative pressure path for a case where the negative pressure chamber is the smallest. Explaining blood test apparatus 31 in FIG. 2 as an example, both suction chamber 60 a shown in FIG. 27 and suction chamber 60 b shown in FIG. 28 are internal space of apparatus body 39, and provided in space closer to blood sensor 42 than laser emitting port 33 c of laser emitting apparatus 33. Negative pressure chamber 60 widely refers to space where skin 13 abuts on blood sensor unit 44 and a negative pressure is created upon measurement, and includes internal space of blood sensor unit 44 in addition to suction chambers 60 a and 60 b in apparatus body 39. As shown in FIG. 27 and FIG. 28, negative pressure chamber 60 (particularly, suction chambers 60 a and 60 b) is, for example, vacuumed by pump 34 a (that is, a negative pressure is created), and a negative pressure is released by valve 34 b.

If negative pressure chamber 60 is small, the energy required for creating a negative pressure is reduced, and the time required for the blood test is also reduced. Therefore, negative pressure chamber 60 (particularly, suction chambers 60 a and 60 b) inside blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention is preferably partitioned by a wall provided closer to blood sensor 42 than laser emitting port 33 c of laser emitting apparatus 33.

To be more specific, wall (partition or dividing wall for a negative pressure) 70 that partitions suction chambers 60 a and 60 b may be arranged in the same position as laser emitting port 33 c, or in the same position as focus lens 33 h (that is, the wall and focus lens 33 h are integrated), or focus lens 33 h itself may serve as a wall. Examples shown in FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 show the latter case. Further, to reduce the volume of negative pressure chamber 60, the shape of the suction chamber may be a cone (see suction chamber 60 b in FIG. 28). Apparatus body 39 has negative pressure path 71 that communicates with suction chambers 60 a and 60 b, and this negative pressure path 71 is connected to the suction port of pump 34 a. As described above, storing part 49, supply channel 50 and air hole 52 which also function as negative pressure path 72, are provided inside blood sensor 42. Suction chambers 60 a and 60 b also communicate with this negative pressure path 72 in blood sensor 42. Particularly, in a configuration example of FIG. 28, fine negative pressure path 73 that connects suction chamber 60 b and air hole 52 is further provided in apparatus body 39. Negative pressure paths 72 and 73 (except part of storing part 49) are micro-channels, the volumes of which are almost zero.

As shown in FIG. 29 and FIG. 30, in blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a, there are at least three internal spaces V₁, V₂ and V₃ as the internal space including the path of laser light 80. Internal space V₁ is the space between the front surface of laser crystal (laser rod) 33 d and focus lens 33 h. Internal space V₂ is the space between focus lens 33 h and blood sensor 42 (or holder 41) in blood sensor unit 44, and corresponds to suction chambers 60 a and 60 b in apparatus body 39 in the configuration examples in FIG. 27 and FIG. 28. Internal space V₃ is the space between blood sensor 42 (or holder 41) in blood sensor unit 44 and skin abutting surface 74, and mainly corresponds to the internal space of blood sensor unit 44.

For example, the diameter of focus lens 33 h is φ5 to 15 mm. The distance from focus lens 33 h to blood sensor 42 is 10 to 30 mm. Further, the distance from blood sensor 42 to the lower face (=skin contact surface) of holder 41 is 1.5 to 2 mm, and the diameter of blood sensor 42 and holder 41 is φ6 to 10 mm. Negative pressure chamber 60 shown in FIG. 27 is configured with V₂ and V₃. When the volume of suction chamber 60 a is made a maximum, actually, there would be little inclining part in the internal shape of apparatus body 39, and so the part of V₂ can be made similar to a cylindrical shape in a simple manner. The part of V₃ is also in a cylindrical shape. Therefore, in this case, the volume can be made approximately 5.5 cc (see area surrounded by a dotted line in FIG. 29). Further, negative pressure chamber 60 shown in FIG. 28 is also configured with V₂ and V₃. When the volume of suction chamber 60 b is made a minimum, the part of V₂ has the shape of a cone, the part of the negative pressure path need not be taken into account, and the part of V₃ is the same as described above, and so the volume can be made approximately 0.45 cc (see area surrounded by a dotted line in FIG. 30).

The Electrical Circuit

FIG. 31 is a block diagram of electrical circuit section 36. In FIG. 31, 54 b to 57 b and 56 c are contact parts formed in blood sensor 42. Contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c are connected to switch circuit 71 via connectors 61 a to 61 e. The output of switch circuit 71 is connected to the input of current/voltage converter 72. The output of current/voltage converter 72 is connected to the input of calculating section 74 via analogue/digital converter (hereinafter A/D converter) 73. The output of calculating section 74 is connected to display section 37 formed with liquid crystal. Further, reference voltage supply 78 is connected to switch circuit 71. Reference voltage supply 78 may provide ground potential.

The output and input of controlling section 76 is connected to a control terminal of switch circuit 71, calculating section 74, puncture button 75, transmitting section 77, timer 79, laser emitting apparatus 33, negative pressure means 34 (particularly, suction pump 34 a) and first skin contact sensor 62, and also connected to a warning means (not shown) and second skin contact sensor 110 m (see FIG. 22). Further, the output of calculating section 74 is also connected to the input of transmitting section 77. The suction port of negative pressure means 34 (particularly, pump valve unit 34 b) is led inside negative pressure chamber 60 and blood sensor unit 44 via negative pressure path 71.

The operation of electrical circuit section 36 will be described.

Before a blood test, it is specified to which of connectors 61 a to 61 e, respective contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c of blood sensor 42 are connected. First, by the command from controlling section 76, out of connectors 61 a to 61 e, contact part 56 c where electrical resistance between the neighboring terminals is zero, is specified. A connection electrode connected to specified contact part 56 c is determined as reference electrode 56 d. Using connector 61 connected to contact part 56 c as a reference, connectors 61 connected to connection electrodes 56 a, 57 a, 54 a and 55 a, are specified in order. In this way, connectors 61 connected to connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a are specified.

Then, a blood test is conducted. Next, switch circuit 71 is switched, and detection electrode 54 as an active electrode for measuring the amount of blood components is connected to current/voltage converter 72 via connectors 61 determined as described above. Further, detection electrode 54, which serves as a sensing electrode for detecting the inflow of blood 16, is connected to reference voltage supply 78 via connectors 61 determined as described above.

A certain voltage is applied between detection electrode 54 and detection electrode 55. When blood 16 flows into detecting section 51 in this state, a current flows between detection electrode 54 and detection electrode 55. This current is converted to a voltage by current/voltage converter 72, and the voltage value is converted to a digital value by A/D converter 73. The digital value is outputted to calculating section 74. Calculating section 74 detects a sufficient inflow of blood 16 based on the digital value.

When blood 16 is not detected at detecting section 51 after a predetermined time has passed or when the amount of blood 16 is not adequate, a warning means may be started for warning, and the treatment may be displayed on display section 37.

Next, glucose, which is a blood component, is measured. The glucose content is measured by, first, switching switch circuit 71 by the command from controlling section 76 and connecting detection electrode 54, which serves as the active electrode for measuring the glucose content, to current/voltage converter 72 via connectors 61. Further, detection electrode 56, which serves as the counter electrode for measuring the glucose content, is connected to reference voltage supply 78 via connectors 61.

For example, while the glucose in blood and the oxidation-reduction enzyme are reacted for a certain period, current/voltage converter 72 and reference voltage supply 78 are turned off. After a certain period (1 to 10 seconds) has passed, by the command from controlling section 76, a certain voltage (0.2 V to 0.5 V) is applied between detection electrode 54 and detection electrode 56. The current flowing between detection electrode 54 and detection electrode 56 is converted to a voltage by current/voltage converter 72. This voltage value is converted to a digital value by A/D converter 73. This digital value is outputted to calculating section 74. Calculating section 74 calculates the glucose content based on this digital value.

After the glucose content is measured, the Hct (hematocrit) level is measured.

First, by the command from controlling section 76, switch circuit 71 is switched. Detection electrode 57, which serves as the active electrode for measuring the Hct level, is connected to current/voltage converter 72 via connectors 61. Further, detection electrode 54, which serves as the counter electrode for measuring the Hct level, is connected to reference voltage supply 78 via connectors 61.

Next, by the command from controlling section 76, a certain voltage (2V to 3V) is applied between detection electrode 57 and detection electrode 54. The current flowing between detection electrode 57 and detection electrode 54 is converted to a voltage by current/voltage converter 72. This voltage value is converted to a digital value by A/D converter 73. This digital value is outputted to calculating section 74. Calculating section 74 calculates the Hct level based on this digital value.

Using the calculated Hct level and the glucose content, and, with reference to a calibration curve or a calibration table, which was calculated in advance, the glucose content is corrected with the Hct level. The corrected result is displayed on display section 37.

Further, the corrected result may be transmitted from transmitting section 77 to an injection apparatus that injects insulin (used as an example of a curative drug). The result may be transmitted by radio, but is preferably transmitted via optical communication which does not interfere with medical equipment. If the injection apparatus can set the dose of insulin automatically based on the measured data transmitted to the injection apparatus, the patient does not have to set the dose of insulin to be administered in the injection apparatus, which alleviates the inconvenience of the setting. Further, the dose of insulin can be set in the injection apparatus without involving an artificial means, so that it is possible to prevent human setting errors.

Although a case has been described above where glucose is measured using blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention, blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention are suitable for use in measurement of blood components (such as the lactate level and cholesterol) other than glucose.

Flow 1 of Measurement Steps

The flow of a blood test using blood test apparatus 31 shown in FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 32.

First, blood sensor unit 44 is attached to blood test apparatus 31 (step 81). In this step 81, blood sensor unit 44 is inserted into adapter 40. By this insertion, the tip of adapter 40 abuts on attaching part 41 b of blood sensor unit 44. Blood sensor unit 44 is latched to adapter 40 by elasticity of holder 41.

Next, connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a of blood sensor 42 are specified (step 82). Here, reference electrode 56 d is specified from resistance values between neighboring connectors 61 a to 61 e in electrical circuit section 36. From specified reference electrode 56 d, connection electrodes 56 a, 57 a, 54 a and 55 a are specified clockwise. In this way, connection electrodes 54 a to 57 a of blood sensor 42 of blood sensor unit 44 inserted at an arbitrary angle are specified in step 82, and, as a result, detection electrodes 54 to 57 are specified.

Next, tip 41 h of blood sensor unit 44 is pressed against skin 13 of the patient and is brought into close contact with skin 13 (step 83). When first skin contact sensor 62 detects a contact between skin 13 and tip 41 h, suction pump 34 a of negative pressure means 34 operates and starts creating a negative pressure. At this time, it is also possible to detect the load current applied to suction pump 34 a with controlling section 76, and display on display section 37 whether or not a negative pressure is enough for puncturing. Instead of detecting a load current, it is possible to measure with timer 79 a predetermined time from when a negative pressure is created and display on display section 37 whether or not puncturing is possible.

Further, if second skin contact sensor 110 m as shown in FIG. 22 is provided, it is possible to detect a lift of skin 13 by suction of a negative pressure. The detected result may be displayed on display section 37.

In this way, if a negative pressure is created on skin 13 when skin 13 is punctured with laser light, skin 13 that has been relaxed before is placed in a state of tension, so that it is possible to collect blood 16 efficiently even if the prick by the puncturing is small. Therefore, the pain of the patient is alleviated. Further, by lifting skin 13 to a predetermined position by a negative pressure and specifying (controlling) the position of skin 13, it is possible to focus the emitted laser light correctly.

Next, puncture button 75 is pressed (step 84). A signal of puncture button 75 is recognized in electrical circuit section 36. When electrical circuit section 36 starts laser emitting apparatus 33, laser light is emitted toward skin 13. By setting the puncturing voltage of the laser light approximately 300 V, the pain the patient feels is alleviated.

Next, blood is collected (step 85). Blood 16 flowing out from skin 13 of the patient, punctured with the laser light, is stored in storing part 49 of blood sensor 42 (see FIG. 8, for example). Blood 16 stored in storing part 49 intrudes into supply channel 50 by capillary action and is led to detecting section 51. When blood 16 led to detecting section 51 reaches detection electrode 55 as the sensing electrode, it is determined that the amount of blood 16 required for measurement is obtained. At this time, negative pressure means 34 may be stopped, or negative pressure means 34 may be stopped after skin contact sensor 62 detects a non-contact of the skin.

On the other hand, when blood 16 is not detected at detecting section 51 after a predetermined time has passed or when the amount of blood 16 is not adequate (which is detected using the resistance between detection electrode 54 and detection electrode 55), a warning means may be started for warning, and the appropriate measures may be displayed on display section 37.

Next, glucose is measured (step 86). After glucose in blood and glucose oxidation-reduction enzyme are reacted for a certain period, glucose may be measured by applying a voltage between detection electrode 54 as the active electrode and detection electrode 56 as the counter electrode.

Further, the Hct level is measured (step 87). When a voltage is applied between detection electrode 57 as the active electrode and detection electrode 54 as the counter electrode, a current that depends on the Hct level is detected. The Hct level is measured based on this current.

Finally, the blood components are corrected (step 88). That is, using the Hct level measured in step 87, the glucose content calculated in step 86 is corrected. The corrected result is displayed on display section 37. When measurement of the blood sugar level is finished through the above-described steps, blood sensor unit 44 after use is discarded.

Flow 2 of Measurement Steps

FIG. 33 schematically illustrates a flowchart of measuring steps in more detail.

In FIG. 33, step 151 shows a state before blood sensor unit 44 is attached to adapter 40 of blood test apparatus 31. Step 152 shows a state where blood sensor unit 44 is inserted into adapter 40 along guide part 63 (see FIG. 7). Step 153 shows a state where connectors 61 are pressed and connectors 61 abut on contact parts 54 b to 57 b and 56 c of sensor 42.

Next, the flow shifts to step 154, and a main switch of blood test apparatus 31 is turned on. Electrical circuit section 36 detects reference electrode 56 d automatically and specifies detection electrodes 54 to 57. Display section 37 then displays that preparation for measurement is completed.

In step 155, the end part of blood sensor unit 44 of blood test apparatus 31 is made to abut on skin 13. In FIG. 33, after step 155, apparatus body 39 of blood test apparatus 31 is omitted, and only blood sensor unit 44 is shown. In step 156, blood test apparatus 31 is made to abut on skin 13 of the patient. First skin contact sensor 62 detects skin 13 when blood test apparatus 31 abuts on skin 13.

When first skin contact sensor 62 detects skin 13, the flow shifts to step 157. In step 157, negative pressure means 34 starts operating, and vacuums negative pressure chamber 60 as shown by arrow 157 a. As a result of the suction, skin 13 is lifted. In the case of manual negative pressure means 140 (see FIG. 3), display section 37 displays start of manual operation, and the patient starts operating manual pump knob 142.

When a negative pressure is created, skin 13 is further lifted as shown in step 158 and abuts on second skin contact sensor (skin contact electrode) 110 m.

Second skin contact sensor 110 m is formed on the reverse side of blood sensor 42 attached on the lower face of blood sensor unit 44 (see FIG. 22), or formed on the lower face of attaching part 120 b (see FIG. 23) in a case that blood sensor 42 is attached on the upper face of blood sensor unit 44.

Second skin contact sensor 110 m only has to detect a contact between skin 13 and blood sensor 42, and, for example, an optical sensor, a mechanical switch or an electrical resistance detection element may be used instead of an electrode.

In step 159, suctioning of skin 13 in negative pressure chamber 60 is stopped. When second skin contact sensor 110 m is not provided, the suction may be stopped after a predetermined time has passed since negative pressure means 34 started operating. The time passed may be measured with timer 79 of electrical circuit section 36.

Next, the flow shifts to step 160, and skin 13 is irradiated with laser light and punctured. By this puncturing, blood 16 flows out from skin 13. Skin 13 may be punctured automatically when second skin contact sensor 110 m detects skin 13. Alternatively, it is also possible to allow the patient to press puncture button 75 (see FIG. 29) according to a display on display section 37 that blood sensor unit 44 abuts on skin 13. When the patient presses puncture button 75, the patient can get ready for puncturing.

As shown in step 161, blood 16 flowing out from skin 13 fills storing part 49 and flows into supply channel 50. Blood 16 flows into supply channel 50 by capillary action in supply channel 50 and suction through air hole 52 by negative pressure means 34.

As shown in step 162, blood 16 is led to detecting section 51 of blood sensor 42. When the inflow of blood 16 into detecting section 51 is detected, the operation of negative pressure means 34 is stopped (step 163). When blood 16 reaches detection electrode 55 (see FIG. 12) of sensor 42, the inflow of blood 16 is detected. Then, vent switch 34 c is operated, and the pressure in negative pressure chamber 60 is made equal to the outside atmospheric pressure.

Next, as shown in step 164, blood test apparatus 31 is released from skin 13. When measurement is finished, display section 37 displays that the measurement is finished. Then, the flow shifts to step 165, and display section 37 displays the result of measuring collected blood 16.

Flow 3 of Measurement Steps (Including Authentication Steps)

The flow of a blood test using the blood test apparatus of the present invention may include the steps of authenticating the user (i.e., the patient), so that a party other than the authorized party is not allowed to use in view of safety, given that the blood test apparatus is laser equipment.

FIG. 34 shows a flow of a test including authentication step 261. Whether or not the patient is a predetermined authorized party may be authenticated using fingerprints, voice prints, iris and vein patterns, for example.

When the patient is authorized to use the apparatus, the flow proceeds to step 262. The patient sets the depth of puncturing (i.e., laser power) by operating dials. Then, the flow shits to step 263, and blood sensor unit 44 including blood sensor 42 is attached to adapter 40 of blood test apparatus 31. Apparatus body 39 automatically starts upon attachment of blood sensor unit 44 and enters a measurement standby state. It is also possible to perform step 263 of attaching blood sensor unit 44 before step 261. Although the measurement operation cannot be performed unless blood sensor unit 44 is attached, it is possible to display the measurement result.

Next, the flow proceeds to step 264. In step 264, first skin contact sensor 62 (see FIG. 16, for example) detects whether or not blood sensor unit 44 abuts on skin 13. Instead of using first skin contact sensor 62, the presence or absence of a blood vessel, the body temperature, the electrical resistance of the skin, or pulse, may be detected. In any case, in view of safety, the operations from step 265 are performed when a state where blood sensor unit 44 abuts on skin 13 is detected. The apparatus waits in step 264 until blood sensor unit 44 can be detected to abut on skin 13.

When first skin contact sensor 62 detects the skin, the operation of negative pressure means 34 is started in step 265. Further, a drive voltage of laser emitting apparatus 33 starts being charged at the same time. The flow then proceeds to step 266, and the value of the current flowing into negative pressure means 34 is monitored for 1 to 5 seconds. When the current value is not normal, display section 37 displays that the current value is not normal, and the flow returns to the step before step 264.

When the current value is normal, the flow proceeds to step 267, and whether or not the negative pressure is adequate is determined. Whether or not the negative pressure is adequate is determined by comparing the current flowing into negative pressure means 34 with a predetermined threshold. When the negative pressure reaches a certain level, the flow proceeds to step 268, and emission of laser light is allowed. When the negative pressure does not exceed the threshold, assuming an air leakage (i.e., poor contact between blood sensor unit 44 and skin 13), suction by negative pressure means 34 is stopped and a retry is commanded, and then the flow returns to the step before step 264.

Further, by arranging second skin contact sensor 110 m (see FIG. 22), it is possible to detect the lift of skin 13 sucked in by a negative pressure. When skin 13 is lifted adequately and is in close contact with blood sensor 42, emission of laser light is allowed.

In step 268, laser light is emitted and punctures skin 13. The flow then proceeds to step 269, and blood 16 flowing out from skin 13 by puncturing is led into blood sensor 42. At this time, negative pressure means 34 continues to be driven.

Next, the flow proceeds to step 270, and whether or not blood 16 is led into detecting section 51 (see FIG. 8) of blood sensor 42 is checked. Within a certain time (for example, 2 to 10 seconds) after puncturing, whether or not blood 16 reaches detection electrode 55 is detected. When blood 16 is not detected within a certain time, the flow returns to the step before step 264, and the skin is punctured again. Therefore, blood sensor 42 once attached is not wasted without being used. In addition, it is possible to quickly puncture the skin again.

When blood 16 is detected, the flow proceeds to step 271, and the blood sugar level starts being measured. Further, in step 271, the negative pressure starts being released to the atmosphere by controlling pump valve unit 34 b (see FIG. 2). At this time, negative pressure means still operates, so that the patient learns that measurement is in progress from sound and vibration produced while negative pressure means 34 is driven, and the patient does not release blood test apparatus 31 from skin 13. This prevents vibration and shock from being applied to blood test apparatus 31 during measurement of the blood components and realizes stable measurement. Further, this prevents the patient from releasing the apparatus from skin 13 immediately after the negative pressure is released, and prevents blood 16 from splashing and contaminating the surrounding.

When the measurement is finished in step 271, the flow shifts to step 272, and display section 37 displays the measurement result. The flow then shifts to step 273, and negative pressure means 34 (particularly, suction pump 34 a and pump valve unit 34 b) (see FIG. 2) stops being driven. Afterward, the patient releases blood test apparatus 31 from skin 13.

Next, the flow shifts to step 274, and the patient removes blood sensor unit 44 from apparatus body 39 of blood test apparatus 31 and discards blood sensor unit 44. The flow then shifts to step 275, removal of blood sensor unit 44 is detected, and apparatus body 39 automatically turns off.

As described above, in measurement of the blood sugar level using blood test apparatus 31, laser emitting apparatus 33 is driven on conditions (conjunctive condition) that blood test apparatus 31 abuts on skin 13, and so laser light is not emitted for purposes other than puncturing skin 13 and is secure.

Further, prior to use of blood test apparatus 31, the user is authenticated in step 261, so that it is also possible to allow only the authorized party to operate the apparatus and prevent the unauthorized user to operate the apparatus, and so the apparatus is secure.

Blood test apparatus 31 automatically turns on and off, so that it is possible to make the operation simple and reduce consumption of battery 35.

Control of a Negative Pressure in Laser Emission

Blood test apparatus 31 of the present invention may intermittently create a negative pressure more than once after puncturing. The timing of creating a negative pressure and its effect will be described with reference to FIG. 35 and FIG. 36.

When first skin contact sensor 62 detects skin 13, negative pressure means 34 starts being driven at time 166 a (step 156 in FIG. 33). A negative pressure is created in negative pressure chamber 60, and skin 13 is tensed and lifted as shown in state 167 a (step 157 in FIG. 33). Skin 13 is lifted and abuts on second skin contact sensor 110 m at time 166 b (step 158 in FIG. 33). At time 166 b, skin 13 is as shown in state 167 b in FIG. 36. Here, the negative pressure supplied to negative pressure chamber 60 is stopped (step 159 in FIG. 33). Then, at time 166 c, skin 13 is punctured (step 160 in FIG. 33). Skin 13 becomes as shown in state 167 c, and blood 16 leaks.

Then, after the negative pressure supply is once stopped, a negative pressure is created again at time 166 d. By a negative pressure, the opening part of skin 13 widens as shown in state 167 d, so that blood 16 flows out more easily (step 161 in FIG. 33).

In this way, one of the reasons for intermissively creating a negative pressure is to widen the hole punctured in skin 13 and collect blood 16 more easily. Another reason is to prevent blood 16 from gushing out and being oversampled when suction is performed at a burst with strong negative pressure. Therefore, negative pressure means 34 is operated intermissively to such an extent that blood 16 does not overflow. In this way, power is saved by weakening sucking force, and an adequate amount of blood 16 is collected. When an adequate amount of blood 16 is obtained and accurate measurement is finished, blood test apparatus 31 is removed from skin 13 (step 164 in FIG. 33). At time 166 e when the measurement is finished, as shown in state 169 e, wound 168 widened by a negative pressure, of skin 13, is sealed again. Therefore, the wound heals faster.

As the case may be for some patients, blood 16 is less likely to flowing out from skin 13 even if skin 13 is punctured with laser light. In such a case, it is also possible to make blood 16 flow out easily by increasing the negative pressure after puncturing compared to the negative pressure before puncturing. Since the maximum pressure (negative pressure) is fixed, a negative pressure is controlled by controlling the period valve 34 b is closed. Further, it is also possible to configure so as to create a negative pressure continuously, instead of creating a negative pressure intermissively.

Further, blood test apparatus 31 of the present invention may perform a “rubbing operation” before and after puncturing. The rubbing operation will be described with reference to FIG. 37.

The rubbing operation is performed, for example, by driving pump 34 a (for example, an electric suction pump) at a constant voltage and opening and closing valve 34 b (for example, an electromagnetic valve) at a predetermined timing. In the operation example shown in FIG. 37, during the period (period 92) after first skin contact sensor 62 detects skin 13 and negative pressure means 34 starts being driven (starts suction) until the skin is punctured with laser light, rubbing (rubbing for preparation before puncturing) is performed as preparation before puncturing. After the skin is punctured with laser light, during the period (period 93) after guiding of blood 16 into detecting section 51 of blood sensor 42 is detected (a drop of blood is detected) until electromagnetic valve 34 b is closed, rubbing (suction after puncturing) is performed at least once. In FIG. 37, air pressure level 90 is a negative pressure level (for example, −10 kPa) at which suction is hardly felt by patient, and level 91 is the maximum pressure (negative pressure) (for example, −70 kPa) when pump 34 a is driven at a constant voltage. The opening and closing operations of valve (electromagnetic valve) 34 b that results in rubbing operation, is performed at a timing at which the air pressure in negative pressure chamber 60 changes between level 90 and level 91 and its change period is longer (for example, 0.1 seconds or longer) than the minimum period skin 13 reacts to the change of the negative pressure. Such opening and closing operations of valve (electromagnetic valve) 34 b are performed from when suction is started until when a drop of blood is detected and the electromagnetic valve is closed (electromagnetic valve opening and closing operation period 94). As described above, the electromagnetic valve is closed after a drop of blood is detected, so that the punctured hole in skin 13 is widened and blood 16 is collected more easily. When blood 16 is collected and measurement is finished, negative pressure means 34 stops being driven (i.e., suction by a pump is stopped and the valve is released).

This rubbing operation improves blood circulation and makes blood 16 flow out more easily. By rubbing skin 13, the part to be punctured is heated (which improves blood circulation), so that it is possible to increase the amount of blood collected compared to a case skin 13 is not rubbed. Further, the rubbing operation alleviates the pain upon puncturing.

The Laser Perforation Apparatus

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a including the laser perforation apparatus of the present invention include a laser perforation apparatus shown in FIG. 38. This laser perforation apparatus has a same structure as blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a without blood sensor unit 44 and members relating to blood sensor unit 44 (for example, connectors connected with blood sensor 42). This laser perforation apparatus has a function of controlling the laser output of laser emitting apparatus 33 so as to puncture the same position to be punctured in a divided manner in one puncturing operation. Here, the “puncturing in a divided manner” refers to dividing one puncturing operation in space or in time. To be more specific, the former refers to a case where the puncturing operation is performed by dividing a laser light into a plurality of optical paths (branch control of the laser output), and the latter refers to a case where the puncturing operation is performed by emitting a laser light several separate times (pulse control of the laser output).

Branch of Laser Light in Laser Emission

Blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention may puncture skin 13 by dividing one laser light emitted from laser emitting apparatus 33 into a plurality of laser lights. In FIG. 39, the reference numeral “33” is the laser emitting apparatus, and “13” is the skin of the patient. Further, reference numerals “170 a,” “170 b” and “170 c” are splitters, each of which distributes incident light uniformly by allowing half of the incident light to pass through and reflecting the other half of the incident light. These splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c are formed with half mirrors.

Reference numerals “171 a,” “171 b” and “171 c” show total reflection mirrors that reflect all the incident light. These total reflection mirrors (hereinafter simply “mirrors”) 171 a, 171 b and 171 c are paired with splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c, respectively. In FIG. 39, these splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c and mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c are set at predetermined angles with respect to incident light so that the same irradiated position 177 is punctured.

Laser light 172 emitted from laser emitting apparatus 33 is branched into laser light 173 a and 173 b by splitter 170 a. Branched laser light 173 b enters mirror 171 a, and laser light 173 b is totally reflected by this mirror 171 a and becomes laser light 174. This laser light 174 is branched into laser light 175 a and laser light 175 b by splitter 170 b. Branched laser light 175 a directly punctures irradiated position 177 in skin 13. Further, laser light 175 b branched at splitter 170 b is totally reflected by mirror 171 b, becomes laser light 175 c and punctures irradiated position 177 in skin 13.

On the other hand, laser light 173 a which passes through splitter 170 a is branched into laser light 176 a and laser light 176 b by splitter 170 c. Branched laser light 176 a directly punctures irradiated position 177 in skin 13. Further, laser light 176 b branched by splitter 170 c is totally reflected by mirror 171 c, becomes laser light 176 c and punctures irradiated position 177 in skin 13.

In this way, one laser light 172 is branched into a plurality of optical paths and punctures irradiated position 177 in skin 13, and the skin is punctured with laser light having a small output, so that it is possible to alleviate the pain. Therefore, it is possible to focus laser lights on blood capillaries inside skin 13 and perform puncturing.

Further, as shown in FIG. 40, if mirror 171 c is arranged farther from laser light 176 a than the position shown in FIG. 39, it takes laser light 176 b branched by splitter 170 c a longer time to be totally reflected by mirror 171 c, become laser light 176 c and reach irradiated position 177 in skin 13. In this way, by arranging mirrors at appropriate positions, it is possible to control the laser output so that the same position can be irradiated with a plurality of branched laser lights in order.

Cubic optical device 178 that divides a rectangular parallelepiped with diagonal line 178 a as shown in FIG. 41 is preferably used as splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c and mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c. Each of cubic splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c is formed by attaching mirrors of different refractive indexes together on a matching surface, and each of cubic mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c is formed by attaching together a surface that totally reflects light and a surface that totally transmits light. In this way, optical device 178 formed in a cubic shape does not cause a shift of a transmitting optical path and ghost, and can maintain high accuracy against changes such as division and refraction of the optical path. Further, one cubic optical device can constitute all or each of splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c and mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c.

For example, a case will be described where laser branches shown in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 are configured with cubic optical devices. Although branches of laser light 172 are shown in a two-dimensional image in FIG. 39 and FIG. 40, if these are shown in three-dimensional image, the image becomes as shown in FIG. 42. As shown in FIG. 42A, laser light 172 emitted from laser emitting apparatus 33 is once branched into a plurality of optical paths and focused on one irradiated position 177 finally. FIG. 42B shows an example of a cube that realizes this branch. In cube 179 shown in FIG. 42B, splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c and mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c are arranged at fixed predetermined positions. In this way, by accommodating splitters 170 a, 170 b and 170 c and mirrors 171 a, 171 b and 171 c used for laser branch in cube 179, it is possible to make fine positioning unnecessary and emit laser light which is controlled in blanches, to the desired position only by arranging cube 179 on a laser optical axis.

As the method of branching a laser light, a laser light may be divided using an optical fiber. FIG. 63A and FIG. 63B show a method of branching a laser light using an optical fiber. FIG. 63A shows a case where a laser light from laser emitting apparatus 33 is divided into two branches by branch fiber cable 421. In this case, laser light 422 which is divided into two branches is emitted from this two-branch fiber cable 421 toward the same irradiated position 177 in skin 13. Two-branch fiber cable 421 includes one optical fiber directional coupler 423. Further, FIG. 63B shows a case where a laser light from laser emitting apparatus 33 is divided into four branches by branch fiber cable 424. In this case, laser light 425 divided into four branches is emitted from this four-branch fiber cable 424 toward irradiated position 177 in skin 13. Four-branch fiber cable 424 includes three optical fiber directional couplers 423. In this way, even if an optical fiber is used, as in the case shown in FIG. 39, one laser light emitted from laser emitting apparatus 33 can be divided into a plurality of branches and puncture skin 13. Particularly, when a fiber cable is used, laser light does not leak outside, so that handling is much simpler than the case where a splitter is used.

FIG. 64 is a schematic view showing the configuration of optical fiber directional coupler 423. Generally, a directional coupler is an optical device that branches a light. Optical fiber directional coupler 423 is configured by removing clads 428 of two optical fibers 426 at coupling section 427 and making cores 429 closer to each other. When light enters from one optical fiber 426, in optical fiber directional coupler 423, the light transmits to the other core 429 near the part where two cores 429 come close to each other by the interference effect of light, and the light can be branched.

FIG. 65 shows a case where branch joint section 430 and fiber cable 431 are used as a means for branching laser light using an optical fiber. Here, laser light 432 emitted from laser emitting apparatus 33 is divided into two branches via branch joint section (T-branch) 430. Branch joint section 430, for example, incorporates triangular total reflection mirror 433 and branches laser light 432 in an inverted T shape. The branched laser lights puncture the same position 177 in skin 13 to be irradiated via fiber cable 431.

Generally, when skin 13 is irradiated with laser light, the irradiated part absorbs the light and its temperature thereby increases rapidly. This increase in the temperature evaporates blood 16 and lifts skin 13 in a balloon shape. When skin 13 is further lifted, skin 13 is destroyed and blood 16 flows out. After blood 16 flows out, the bottom surface punctured with laser light is carbonized, and a carbonized odor is produced. The carbonized odor may be deodorized with a deodorizer.

This laser emitting apparatus 33 is designed so that laser light punctures skin 13 of the patient approximately 0.5 mm deep.

In this case, the type the laser light by laser emitting apparatus 33 may be Er:YAG or CO₂ gas, the wavelength range may be 2.7 to 3.5 μm or 6.5 to 10.5 μm, the pulse width may be 50 to 400 μs, preferably 200 μs, and the output may be 300 mJ to 3000 mJ. Further, the diameter of a shot may be 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, and the depth of a shot may be 0.3 to 0.7 mm. Further, the charge voltage falls in a range of 200 to 700 V, preferably 500 V. This high voltage is obtained by charging electrical charge in a capacitor using a battery and discharging this electrical charge at a burst.

The Emission Angle in Laser Emission

One laser light may be emitted from an oblique direction with respect to skin 13 and puncture skin 13. In FIG. 43, a negative pressure is created in negative pressure chamber 60 of blood sensor unit 44 by negative pressure means 34, and skin 13 is lifted. Laser light 181 is emitted at an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to the direction of the tangent to top 180 of the lift of skin 13. In this way, when laser light is emitted at an angle less than 90 degrees with respect to the direction of the tangent to the top of the lifted skin, compared to a case where laser light is emitted from a vertical direction, laser light 181 is emitted from an oblique direction with respect to a surface where blood capillaries are crowded. Therefore, although the emission intensity per unit area of laser light 181 decreases, laser light 181 is more likely to damage the blood capillaries. Therefore, blood collection efficiency improves. Accordingly, even when the depth of puncturing is shallow, blood 16 can be collected enough, and the pain of the patient is alleviated.

Further, the shape of emission of laser light 181 does not have to be round, and, as shown in FIG. 44, may be ellipse 183 or rectangle 184. When the shape of emission is made ellipse 183 or rectangle 184, laser light 181 is more likely to damage the crowded blood capillaries, and blood collection efficiency improves. Therefore, blood 16 can be collected enough even with a shallow depth of puncturing, and so the pain of the patient can be alleviated.

In blood test apparatuses 31 and 31 a of the present invention, the laser output intensity can be made variable even with one laser emitting apparatus 33.

As shown in FIG. 45, a plurality of types of filters that transmit different amounts of light, for example, plate 193 to which neutral density (ND) filters 191 a to 191 d are attached, may be provided between laser emitting apparatus 33 and skin 13. Plate 193 is arranged in the emission path of laser light 194. By rotating plate 193, the amount of laser light 194 emitted on skin 13 is controlled. By controlling the amount of laser light, the depth of puncturing can be controlled.

By this means, in addition to the conventional method which has been performed to control laser intensity, of controlling the applied voltage in a case of a flashlamp and controlling the current in a case of semiconductor laser, the output of laser puncturing can be adjusted using an ND filter. Therefore, the laser output can be controlled in more detail.

Further, in another application, when laser output intensity is determined by the voltage applied to the flashlamp, making the voltage variable may cause deterioration of the stability of the voltage value and fluctuation of laser output. To solve this problem, by a fixed voltage and using ND filters 191 a to 191 d that transmit different amount of light even when the output of laser light 194 decreases (changes), it is possible to maintain the output of the laser light constant. Therefore, it is possible to provide stable laser output.

Pulse Control (Time Division) in Laser Emission

To alleviate the pain upon puncturing, the skin may be punctured a plurality of times up to a certain depth. Compared to the method of puncturing the skin once using a large pulse with approximately 320 V as a charge voltage, as shown in FIG. 46, laser light is divided into three pulses 198 a, 198 b and 198 c, and the skin is punctured a plurality of times using these small pulses with approximately 210 V at intervals (i.e., intermission periods) of 100 μs to 1 msec. By this means, as shown in FIG. 47, skin 13 can be punctured in three stages of level 199 a, 199 b and 199 c that match pulses 198 a, 198 b and 198 c, respectively. In this case, a capacitor is charged in intermission periods of 100 μs to 1 msec and a high voltage is obtained.

According to the control by this puncturing method, the depth skin 13 is punctured with one pulse is shallow, so that it is possible to alleviate the pain and puncture the skin to a predetermined depth. In this case, it is important to make intervals between pulses 198 a, 198 b and 198 c short, between 100 μs and 1 msec, and the next puncturing is preferably performed before blood 16 leaks.

Further, to alleviate a pain upon puncturing, as another method for puncturing the skin to a predetermined depth a plurality of times, a method of making laser light variable on a continuous basis and performing fractionated emission, will be described. The part to be punctured with the present invention is, for example, the skin of the finger cushion. The skin is formed, in order from the surface, with the epidermis that has the stratum corneum outside and the dermis where pain points and blood capillaries exist. Therefore, by providing energy that removes only the epidermis by the first emission or by a plurality of emissions and then puncturing the dermis with little energy, the pain is alleviated.

For example, when laser rod (laser crystal) 33 d which is formed with Er:YAG doped with erbium and which is φ2.5 mm and 52 mm long, is used, a large pulse of approximately 450 V is used as the charge voltage to flashlamp (excitation light source) 33 e in one puncturing. FIG. 48A shows the circuit for causing the operation at this time, FIG. 48B shows the current inputted to flashlamp 33 e, and FIG. 48C shows the output of the laser light.

In the circuit diagram of FIG. 48A, when thyristor (SCR 1) 401 is turned on, a boosted voltage of several kV, is outputted from trigger coil 402, the xenon gas filling flashlamp 33 e is ionized, main discharge of electrolytic capacitor 403 is started, and flashlamp 33 e emits light. By this emission of light from flashlamp 33 e, laser rod 33 d is excited, and laser light is emitted. The reference numeral “404” is resistance (R1).

In the above-described case, the skin is punctured in one time.

Next, a case will be described where laser light is divided and emitted in several times with one charging of the electrolytic capacitor. FIG. 49A, FIG. 49B and FIG. 49C show the circuit diagram, the current inputted to flashlamp 33 e and the output of laser light at this time, respectively.

Referring to the circuit diagram of FIG. 49A, in a case where light emitted by flashlamp 33 e is divided in several times, when a “high” signal is inputted to transistor (IGBT) 411 with a large current and high switching speed, the negative terminal of flashlamp 33 e is grounded when transistor (IGBT) 411 is turned on, a voltage from electrolytic capacitor 412 is applied to flashlamp 33 e, and, at the same time, a boosted voltage of several kV is outputted from trigger coil 413. By this means, the xenon gas filling flashlamp 33 e is ionized, main discharge of electrolytic capacitor 412 is started, and flashlamp 33 e emits light. Next, when a “low” signal is inputted to transistor (IGBT) 411, transistor (IGBT) 411 is turned off, and the voltage stops being applied to flashlamp 33 e. By this means, flashlamp 33 e stops emitting light and stops outputting laser light. By repeating this operation, it is possible to divide laser output into several times. Here, a case has been described where laser light is outputted in two outputs. The reference numeral “414” is resistance (R1).

As is clear from FIG. 49C, laser light can be emitted with high power at first and then emitted with low power. When laser rod 33 d of Er:YAG with φ2.5 mm and 52 mm long described in the present example is used, the minimum voltage of flashlamp 33 e for emitting laser light is 370 V, and so it is necessary to set the first voltage higher than 370 V and to shorten the emission time of flashlamp 33 e in order to reduce total energy. The second voltage applied to flashlamp 33 e is set a low voltage of 370 V. By this means, it is possible to puncture skin 13 in two stages, levels 199 a and 199 b (see FIG. 47).

According to the control using this puncturing method, first, the epidermis of skin 13 is removed, and, then, the dermis is punctured with little energy, and so laser light does not reach the deep part underneath the dermis, so that it is possible to alleviate the pain and puncture the skin to a predetermined depth. The epidermis is punctured so that blood 16 does not leak.

Power Supply Control

The blood test apparatus of the present invention has a laser emitting apparatus that consumes a large amount of power, and so management of a power supply is important. In a case of a portable device that uses a battery as a power supply, the capacity is limited, and so management of a power supply is particularly important.

Further, when the apparatus influences safety of life, for example, an apparatus that measures the blood sugar level, cases must be avoided where measurement cannot be performed due to power exhaustion, and it is important that a blood test (for example, measurement of the blood sugar level) can be conducted at least.

The blood test apparatus of the present invention preferably has a power supply control circuit that controls a power supply for driving the laser emitting apparatus included in the apparatus and a power supply for driving the electrical circuit section. Further, the power supply control circuit preferably controls the power supply for driving the laser emitting apparatus and the power supply for driving the electrical circuit section separately.

“Controlling separately” means determining whether or not to supply power for driving the laser emitting apparatus and power for driving the electrical circuit section according to the power supply (particularly, battery) level and the voltage, and determining from which of power supply, power is supplied.

The power supply in the blood test apparatus of the present invention preferably has a battery power supply, so that the blood test apparatus can be used as a portable device. There may be one battery power supply or two or more battery power supplies.

A battery may be a secondary battery or a primary battery, or a combination of both batteries. Examples of the secondary battery include a lithium-ion battery, lithium polymer battery and nickel hydride battery. Examples of the primary battery include a lithium battery, manganese cell, alkali cell and oxyride dry-cell battery.

The power supply of the blood test apparatus of the present invention may have a connection terminal for an emergency power supply, in addition to a battery power supply, so that the blood test apparatus is connected to other power supplies and used when the battery of the battery power supply is consumed. Examples of the emergency power supply include a dry cell which is easily available, a USB terminal which is used in, for example, personal computers, a fuel cell and a hand dynamo. These power supplies can be connected in a simple manner.

Further, the power supply of the blood test apparatus of the present invention may have an external power supply in addition to a battery power supply. When the apparatus is connected to an external power supply, preferably, the external power supply is used preferentially, and electrical power from a battery is stopped or the battery is charged.

The blood test apparatus may have a battery level measuring circuit for measuring the battery level of a battery power supply. Further, the blood test apparatus preferably has a comparing section that compares the battery level measured by the battery level measuring circuit with a predetermined value (e.g., electrical levels), so that the battery level is learned and whether or not it is possible to perform laser puncturing or a test is determined.

As described above, the comparing section stores predetermined electrical levels. The first of the predetermined electrical level is the electrical level required for the predetermined number of times of tests (including the laser puncturing and measurement). This value is referred to as the first battery level threshold. When the battery level is lower than the first battery level threshold, a warning (battery level warning) is preferably issued to encourage the user to change the battery. The first battery level threshold may be set as appropriate according to designed circuits and is basically a fixed value.

The second of the predetermined electrical level is the electrical level required for one test (including the puncturing and measurement). This value is referred to as the second battery level threshold. When the battery level is equal to or higher than the second battery level threshold, the apparatus determines that at least one test can be performed, and conducts a test. As described above, when the battery level is lower than the first battery level threshold, a battery level warning is preferably issued.

On the other hand, when the measured battery level is lower than the second battery level threshold, a normal test cannot be performed, and so, preferably, laser puncturing is not allowed, and the user is informed that a test cannot be performed (a message of unavailability). However, there is a case where, although laser puncturing is not possible, measurement process which consumes small power can be performed. Therefore, it is possible to perform measurement after performing puncturing using means other than laser light.

The second battery level threshold is preferably set based on the battery power consumption consumed in the previous test. To be more specific, the second battery level threshold is preferably a sum of the battery power consumption and the electrical level required to drive the electrical circuit for measurement. The battery power consumption changes according to a change of laser output setting of the laser emitting apparatus, and so the latest data of the battery power consumption consumed in the test is stored. In this way, the second battery level threshold is variable.

The third of the predetermined electrical level is a sum of the electrical level required to charge the laser emitting apparatus once and the electrical level required to drive the electrical circuit for measurement. This value is referred to as the third battery level threshold. When the power supply for charging the laser emitting apparatus and the power supply for driving the electrical circuit are different, the third battery level threshold is used as a criterion for determining whether or not an emergency power supply for driving the electrical circuit is used to charge the laser emitting apparatus. The electrical level required to charge the laser emitting apparatus once is determined according to the capacity of the capacitor that is charged for laser excitation, the charge current and the internal resistance of the battery.

Setting of a Charge Current Value According to the Battery Level

Further, the charge level for charging the laser emitting apparatus may be set based on the battery level measured in the battery level measuring circuit. FIG. 61A to FIG. 61C show examples of setting the charge level based on the battery level.

FIG. 61A shows a method of changing the charge current stepwise according to the ratio of the battery level (Y axis). For example, when the battery level is 75 to 100% (first zone), the charge current value is made a maximum value (100%), when the battery level is 50 to 75% (second zone), the charge current value is made 50% of the maximum value, and, when the battery level is 25 to 50% (third zone), the charge current is made 25%.

FIG. 61B shows a method of changing the charge current (X axis) continuously in proportion to the battery level (Y axis).

FIG. 61C shows a method of changing the charge current (X axis) continuously based on a change curve of the ratio of the battery level (Y axis) so that a curve becomes a variable curve which is an inverse of the change curve. FIG. 61C shows the control performed in accordance with a curve symmetric about the proportional line of “Y=X+a (a: offset).”

The blood test apparatus of the present invention preferably has a battery voltage measuring circuit for measuring the battery voltage of the battery power supply. Further, the blood test apparatus preferably has a comparing section that compares the battery voltage measured by the battery voltage measuring circuit with a predetermined voltage value.

Cases occur where, even if the electrical level required for a test (puncturing and measurement) remains in the battery, when the laser emitting apparatus is charged for laser puncturing, the battery voltage becomes lower than the voltage required to drive the electrical circuit section for measurement. Therefore, cases occur where, although there is enough battery level for measurement, measurement cannot be performed. Therefore, the battery voltage measuring circuit checks whether or not the battery outputs a sufficient voltage.

As described above, the comparing section stores predetermined voltage values. The first predetermined voltage value is preferably higher enough than the minimum voltage required to drive the electrical circuit section for measurement. This voltage value is referred to as the first voltage threshold. The first voltage threshold is set so that, even if a battery voltage decreases by charging the laser emitting apparatus, the battery voltage is not lower than the minimum required voltage. How much the battery voltage decreases by the charging depends on the property of the battery, and so the first voltage threshold is set as appropriate according to the property of the battery.

When the comparing section determines that the battery voltage measured by the battery voltage measuring circuit before the laser emitting apparatus is charged, is lower than the first voltage threshold, the laser emitting apparatus is preferably charged with a lower current than the normal current, because the battery voltage is less likely to decrease when the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a lower current.

FIG. 62 shows the relationship between the battery voltage (Y axis) and the battery level (X axis) when the charge level is changed. Curve 410, curve 420 and curve 430 show the relationship between the battery voltage (Y axis) and the battery level (X axis), when the charge current is 0 (no load), when the charge current is I, and when the charge current is I′ (>I), respectively. Curve 420 and curve 430 show that the battery voltages are lower than curve 410. This is caused by the resistance (421 and 431) inside the battery.

When the voltage level required to drive the electrical circuit for measurement is set 440, in a case where the charge current is I (curve 420), the battery can drive the electrical circuit until the battery level is X2. On the other hand, when the charge current is I′ (>I) (curve 430), the battery can no longer drive the electrical circuit once the battery level is X1. In this way, when the charge current is lowered, a decrease of the battery voltage is controlled. Significant decrease of the battery voltage is not preferable, because battery energy which cannot be used increases as shown by 450.

The second voltage value determined in advance in the comparing section is equal to or higher than the first voltage threshold and has primarily a sufficient margin. This voltage value is referred to as the second voltage threshold. For example, the first voltage threshold is approximately +0.5 to 1 V.

When the comparing section determines that the battery voltage measured by the battery voltage measuring circuit before the laser emitting apparatus is charged, is higher than the second voltage threshold, the laser emitting apparatus is preferably charged with a higher charge current.

The blood test apparatus of the present invention has a display section (see FIG. 1) that displays the test result of a blood test. The above-described messages for battery level warning and unavailability are preferably displayed on the display section.

A First Example of a Power Supply Controlling Section

FIG. 50 shows a first example of power supply controlling section 200-1 of the blood test apparatus.

In FIG. 50, outlet 201 connected to a household AC power (used as an example of an external power supply) is connected to AC adapter 202. The output of AC adapter 202 can be connected to one input of power supply controlling circuit 203 removably, using a connector.

Battery 210 is connected to battery level and battery voltage measuring circuit 212. The first output of circuit 212 is connected to power supply controlling circuit 203, and the second output of circuit 212 is connected to comparing section 211.

Connection terminal 204 for an emergency power supply is connected to power supply control circuit 203.

When power supply control circuit 203 is connected to AC adapter 202, power supply control circuit 203 controls so that the power supply of AC adapter 202 is preferentially used and battery 210 is not used. When the voltage outputted from AC adapter 202 is detected, and, if this voltage is outputted, supply from battery 35 is stopped forcibly or battery 210 is charged.

The first output of power supply control circuit 203 is connected to electrical circuit section 36 a. The second output of power supply control circuit 203 is connected to the input of boost circuit 205, and the output of boost circuit 205 is connected to laser emitting apparatus 33.

The first output of comparing section 211 is connected to power supply control circuit 203. The second output of comparing section 211 is connected to boost controlling section 208, and the output of boost controlling section 208 is connected to boost circuit 205. The third output of comparing section 211 is connected to display controlling section 209, and the output of display controlling section 209 is connected to display section 37.

Puncture button 75 is connected to the input of electrical circuit section 36 a, and the signal caused by pressing puncture button 75 is connected to the input of boost controlling section 208 via electrical circuit section 36 a. Emergency button 207 is connected to the other input of boost controlling section 208. The output of electrical circuit section 36 a is connected to display section 37.

A first example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 51. In step 311, power supply is started. The flow shifts to step 312, and the battery level is measured. In step 313, the measured battery level is compared with the first battery level threshold, and, in step 314, the battery level is compared with the second battery level threshold. The first battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for the predetermined number of times of tests (including the laser puncturing and measurement), and the second battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for one test (including the puncturing and measurement).

When the battery level is determined to be equal to or higher than the first battery level threshold in step 313, the flow shifts to step 318, and the laser emitting apparatus is charged.

When the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313 and determined to be equal to or higher than the second battery level threshold in step 314, a battery level warning is displayed in step 315 to encourage the user to change the battery, and onto step 318, the laser emitting apparatus is charged.

When the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313 and determined to be lower than the second battery level threshold in step 314, a message of unavailability is displayed on the display section in step 316 to inform the user that a normal test cannot be performed, and power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed in step 317.

When the laser emitting apparatus is charged to a predetermined level, laser light is emitted in step 319 and the skin is punctured. The components in blood flowing out from the skin punctured in step 321 are measured, the obtained measurement result is displayed, and then the blood test is finished.

After the test, the battery level is measured in step 322. In step 323, the difference between the battery level measured in step 312 and the battery level measured in step 322, and the battery consumption of this time are calculated. Further, in step 323, a sum of the battery consumption of this time and the minimum electrical level required to drive the electrical circuit section is calculated, and the second battery level threshold is set again. In step 324, the power supply is stopped.

A second example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 52. In step 311, the power supply is started. In step 331, the battery voltage is measured, and, in step 332, the battery level is measured.

In step 333, the difference between the voltage measured in step 331 and the voltage drop value calculated in step 347 (described later) in the previous test, is calculated. Further, in step 333, the difference is compared with the minimum voltage required to drive the electrical circuit section.

In step 313, the battery level measured in step 332 is compared with the first battery level threshold, and, in step 314, the battery level measured in step 332 is compared with the second battery level threshold. As described above, the first battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for the predetermined number of times of tests (including the laser puncturing and measurement), and the second battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for one test (including the puncturing and measurement).

When the difference is determined to be equal to or higher than the minimum required voltage in step 333 and the battery level is determined to be equal to or higher than the first battery level threshold in step 313, the flow shifts to step 341, and the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a normal current.

When the difference is determined to be equal to or higher than the minimum required voltage in step 333 and the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313, a battery level warning is displayed in step 315 to encourage the user to change the battery, the flow shifts to step 341, and the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a normal current.

When the difference is determined to be equal to or higher than the minimum required voltage in step 333 and the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313 and determined to be lower than the second battery level threshold in step 314, a message that the apparatus cannot be used is displayed in step 316 to inform the user that a normal test cannot be performed, and power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed in step 317.

On the other hand, if the difference is determined to be lower than the minimum required voltage in step 333, the flow shifts to step 335, a message that normal charge cannot be performed is displayed to inform the user that the laser emitting apparatus cannot be charged normally (for example, the charging duration becomes long), and the user is requested to press an emergency button when a test is performed, in step 336.

When the emergency button is not pressed in step 336, the flow shifts to step 317, and power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed.

When the emergency button is pressed in step 336, the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a lower current than usual in step 337. The current value control for the charging takes place in boost controlling section 208. In step 338, the laser emitting apparatus emits laser light and punctures the skin, and, in step 339, measures the components in blood flowing out from the skin punctured in step 339 and displays the measurement result. After the test, the power supply is stopped in step 348.

On the other hand, when the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a normal current in step 341, the voltage of the battery being charged is measured in step 342. In step 343, the charged laser emitting apparatus emits laser light and punctures the skin. In step 344, the components in blood flowing out from the punctured skin is measured, and the measurement result is displayed. In step 345, the battery level after the measurement is measured.

In step 346, the difference between the battery level measured in step 332 and the battery level measured in step 345 is calculated and made the battery consumption of this time. Further, in step 346, a sum of the battery consumption of this time and the minimum electrical level required to drive the electrical circuit section for measurement, is calculated, and the second battery level threshold is set again.

Further, in step 347, the difference between the voltage measured in step 331 and the voltage measured in step 342 is calculated and made the voltage drop value. The voltage drop value is used in step 333 (described above) in the next test. Then, the power supply is stopped in step 348.

A third example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 53. In step 311, power supply is started. The flow shifts to step 312, where the battery level is measured. In step 313, the measured battery level is compared with the first battery level threshold, and, in step 314, the measured battery level is compared with the second battery level threshold.

As described above, the first battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for the predetermined number of times of tests (including the laser puncturing and measurement), and the second battery level threshold refers to the electrical level required for one test (including the puncturing and measurement).

When the battery level is determined to be equal to or higher than the first battery level threshold in step 313, the flow shifts to step 351, and the charge current value (see step 358 described later) for charging the laser emitting apparatus in the previous test is set as the charge current value in the present test.

When the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313 and determined to be equal to or higher than the second battery level threshold in step 314, a battery level warning is displayed in step 315 to encourage the user to change the battery, the flow shifts to step 351, and the charge current value (see step 358) for charging the laser emitting apparatus in the previous test is set as the charge current value in the present test.

When the battery level is determined to be lower than the first battery level threshold in step 313 and determined to be lower than the second battery level threshold in step 314, a message of unavailability is displayed to inform the user that a test cannot be performed in step 316, and power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed in step 317.

In step 352, the laser emitting apparatus is charged with the charge current value set in step 351. When the battery is changed or the type of the power supply is changed, the laser emitting apparatus is charged with a predetermined charge current value. In step 353, the voltage of the battery being charged is measured. In step 354, the voltage of the battery being charged is compared with the first voltage threshold. In step 356, the voltage of the battery being charged is compared with the second voltage threshold.

As described above, the first voltage threshold is higher enough than the minimum voltage required to drive the electrical circuit section for measurement, and the second voltage threshold primarily has a sufficient margin. This voltage value is referred to as the second voltage threshold. For example, the second voltage threshold is higher than the first voltage threshold by approximately +0.5 to 1 V.

When the voltage of the battery being charged is equal to or higher than the first voltage threshold in step 354 and determined to be equal to or lower than the second voltage threshold in step 356, the charge current value at this time is stored as the charge current value in the next test (used in step 351 of the next test) in step 358.

When the voltage of the battery being charged is determined to be lower than the first voltage threshold in step 354, the charge current value is lowered in step 355. On the other hand, when the voltage of the battery being charged is determined to exceed the second voltage threshold in step 356, the charge current is increased in step 357.

In step 359, the laser emitting apparatus emits laser light and punctures the skin. In step 361, the components in blood flowing out from the punctured skin is measured, and the measurement result is displayed. In step 362, the battery level after the test is measured. In step 363, the difference between the battery level measured in step 312 and the battery level measured in step 362 is calculated and made the battery consumption level of this time. Further, in step 363, a sum of the battery consumption of this time and the minimum electrical level required to drive the electrical circuit section for measurement, is calculated and reset as the second battery level threshold. In step 364, the power supply is stopped.

A fourth example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 50 will be described with reference to FIG. 54. Although the flow shown in FIG. 54 is similar to the flow shown in FIG. 53 but is different in the method of setting the charge current value for charging the laser emitting apparatus. That is, in the flow shown in FIG. 54, the charge current value is set in step 350 based on the battery level. The specific setting method is as described above, and, basically, when the ratio of the battery level is higher, the apparatus is charged with a higher current value.

The other steps are the same as those in the flow shown in FIG. 53.

A second example of the power supply controlling section will be described.

FIG. 55 shows a second example of power supply controlling section 200-2 of the blood test apparatus.

In FIG. 55, outlet 201 connected to a household AC power (used as an example of the external power supply) is connected to AC adapter 202. The output of AC adapter 202 can be connected to one input of power supply control circuit 203 removably, using a connector.

Battery 210 a is connected to battery level and battery voltage measuring circuit 212. The first output of circuit 212 is connected to power supply control circuit 203, and the second output of circuit 212 is connected to comparing section 211. Battery 210 b is connected to electrical circuit section 36 a. Connection terminal 204 for an emergency power supply is connected to power supply control circuit 203.

When power supply control circuit 203 is connected to AC adapter 202, power supply control circuit 203 controls so that the power supply of AC adapter 202 is preferentially used and battery 210 a is not used. When the voltage outputted from AC adapter 202 is detected, and, if this voltage is outputted, supply from battery 35 is stopped forcibly or battery 210 a is charged.

The output of power supply control circuit 203 is connected to boost circuit 205, and the output of boost circuit 205 is connected to laser emitting apparatus 33.

The first output of comparing section 211 is connected to power supply control circuit 203. The second output of comparing section 211 is connected to boost controlling section 208, and the output of boost controlling section 208 is connected to boost circuit 205. The third output of comparing section 211 is connected to display controlling section 209, and the output of display controlling section 209 is connected to display section 37.

Puncture button 75 is connected to the input of electrical circuit section 36 a, and the signal caused by pressing puncture button 75 is connected to the input of boost controlling section 208 via electrical circuit section 36 a. Emergency button 207 is connected to the other input of boost controlling section 208. The other output of electrical circuit section 36 a is connected to display section 37.

A first example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 55 will be described with reference to FIG. 56. The flow shown in FIG. 56 is similar to the flow shown in FIG. 51. However, power supply controlling section 200-2 has two batteries (210 a and 210 b), and only battery 210 a (laser battery) is used to charge the laser emitting apparatus. Therefore, the battery level of the laser battery is measured in step 312′, the battery level measured in step 312′ is compared with the first battery level threshold in step 313′, and the battery level measured in step 312′ is compared with the second battery level threshold in step 314′.

The other steps are the same as in the flow shown in FIG. 51.

A second example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 55 will be described with reference to FIG. 57. Although the flow shown in FIG. 57 is similar to the flow shown in FIG. 56, the flow is different in the method of setting the charge current value for charging the laser emitting apparatus. That is, in the flow shown in FIG. 57, the charge current value is set in step 350 based on the battery level. Although the details of the setting method are described above, basically, when the ratio of the battery level is higher, the apparatus is charged with a higher current value.

The other steps are the same as those in the flow shown in FIG. 56.

A third example of the power supply controlling section will be described.

FIG. 58 shows a third example of power supply controlling section 200-2 of the blood test apparatus.

In FIG. 58, outlet 201 connected to a household AC power (used as an example of the external power supply) is connected to AC adapter 202. The output of AC adapter 202 can be connected to one input of power supply control circuit 203 removably, using a connector.

Battery 210 a is connected to battery level and battery voltage measuring circuit 212 a. The first output of circuit 212 a is connected to power supply control circuit 203, and the second output of circuit 212 a is connected to comparing section 211. Battery 210 b is connected to battery level and battery voltage measuring circuit 212 b. The first output of circuit 212 b is connected to power supply control circuit 203, and the second output of circuit 212 b is connected to comparing section 211. Connection terminal 204 for an emergency power supply is connected to power supply control circuit 203.

Both battery 212 a and battery 212 b are connected to power supply controlling section 203, and so battery 212 a and battery 212 b are used to charge laser emitting apparatus 33 and drive electrical circuit section 36 a. Normally, battery 212 a charges the laser emitting apparatus, and battery 212 b drives electrical circuit section 36 a. However, when the battery level of battery 212 a is low and the laser emitting apparatus cannot be charged and the battery level of battery 212 b is sufficient, battery 212 b charges the laser emitting apparatus as a means for emergency.

When power supply control circuit 203 is connected to AC adapter 202, power supply control circuit 203 controls so that the power supply of AC adapter 202 is preferentially used and battery 210 a and battery 210 b are not used. When the voltage outputted from AC adapter 202 is detected, and, if this voltage is outputted, supply from battery 210 a and battery 210 b is stopped forcibly or battery 210 a and battery 210 b are charged.

The first output of power supply control circuit 203 is connected to electrical circuit section 36 a. The second output of power supply control circuit 203 is connected to the input of boost circuit 205, and the output of boost circuit 205 is connected to laser emitting apparatus 33.

The first output of comparing section 211 is connected to power supply control circuit 203. The second output of comparing section 211 is connected to boost controlling section 208, and the output of boost controlling section 208 is connected to boost circuit 205. The third output of comparing section 211 is connected to display controlling section 209, and the output of display controlling section 209 is connected to display section 37.

Puncture button 75 is connected to the input of electrical circuit section 36 a, and the signal caused by pressing puncture button 75 is connected to the input of boost controlling section 208 via electrical circuit section 36 a. Emergency button 207 is connected to the other input of boost controlling section 208. The output of electrical circuit section 36 a is connected to display section 37.

A first example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-1 shown in FIG. 58 will be described with reference to FIG. 59.

The flow shown in FIG. 59 is similar to the flow shown in FIG. 56. However, power supply controlling section 200-3 has two batteries (210 a and 210 b), and both batteries are connected to power supply control circuit 203. Basically, battery 210 a (laser battery) is used to charge the laser emitting apparatus, and battery 210 b (system battery) is used to drive electrical circuit section 36 a. However, there is a case where, in an emergency, for example, when the battery level of battery 210 a is low, battery 210 b is used to charge the laser emitting apparatus.

In the same way as in the flow shown in FIG. 56, the battery level of the laser battery is compared with the second battery level threshold in step 314′, and, when the battery level of the laser battery is determined to be lower than the second battery level threshold, a message for informing the user that the laser battery cannot be used is displayed in step 371.

In step 372, the battery level of the system battery is measured. In step 373, the battery level measured in step 372 is compared with the third battery level threshold. The third battery level threshold may be a sum of the electrical level to be charged so as to enable the laser emitting apparatus to emit laser light and the minimum electrical level of the system.

When the battery level of the system battery is determined to be lower than the third battery level threshold, a message that the apparatus cannot be used is displayed in step 316 to inform the user that the test cannot be performed. Further, in step 317, power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed.

On the other hand, when the battery level of the system battery is determined to be equal to or higher than the third battery level threshold in step 373, in step 374, a message that normal charge cannot be performed is displayed to inform the user that the laser emitting apparatus cannot be charged normally (for example, the charging duration becomes long), and, if the user still desires to perform a test, the user is requested to press the emergency button.

When the emergency button is not pressed in step 375, the flow shifts to 317, and power supply to the laser emitting apparatus is not allowed.

On the other hand, when the emergency button is pressed in step 375, the charging of the laser emitting apparatus using the system battery is allowed in step 376, and the laser emitting apparatus is charged in step 377. Charging in step 377 is preferably performed with a lower current than usual to avoid a voltage drop of the system battery. A current value for charging is controlled by boost controlling section 208.

In step 378, the laser emitting apparatus emits laser light and punctures the skin. In step 379, the components of blood flowing out from the punctured skin is measured, and the measurement result is displayed. In step 381, a battery change warning for the system battery is displayed to encourage the user to change the system battery. In step 382, the power supply is stopped.

A second example of the operation of power supply controlling section 200-3 shown in FIG. 58 will be described with reference to FIG. 60. Although the flow shown in FIG. 60 is similar to the flow shown in FIG. 59, the flow is different in the method of setting the charge current value for charging the laser emitting apparatus. That is, in the flow shown in FIG. 60, the charge current value is set in step 350 based on the battery level. The specific setting method is as described above, and, basically, when the ratio of the battery level is higher, the apparatus is charged with a higher current value.

The other steps are the same as those in the flow shown in FIG. 59.

The disclosures of Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-078418, filed on Mar. 22, 2006, Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-078419, filed on Mar. 22, 2006, Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-078420, filed on Mar. 22, 2006, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2006-078427, filed on Mar. 22, 2006, including the specifications, drawings and abstracts are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The blood test apparatus and its control method of the present invention are suitable for use as a blood test apparatus and its control method that can collect a small amount of blood required and enough for measurement in a reliable manner and perform reliable measurement without placing a load on the patient with a simple configuration. Therefore, the present invention is widely applicable to, for example, household medical equipment particularly used by diabetes patients, as well as blood test apparatuses in the field of medicine. 

1. A blood test apparatus configured for puncturing skin measuring blood, the apparatus comprising: a laser puncturing section that emits a laser light to puncture the skin; a blood sensor that collects and analyzes the blood flowing out from the punctured skin, the blood sensor being configured for detecting collection of the blood; a holder that holds the blood sensor; a negative pressure section that creates a first negative pressure in a space near the blood sensor; and a negative pressure controlling section that controls an operation of the negative pressure section, wherein the negative pressure controlling section repeatedly increases the first negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor up to a predetermined maximum negative pressure and reduces the first negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor to a second negative pressure lower than the predetermined maximum negative pressure, in at least a part of a period that extends from when the skin abuts on the holder until when the blood sensor detects the collection of blood.
 2. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section performs a control to change the predetermined maximum negative pressure and the second negative pressure lower than the predetermined maximum negative pressure in a predetermined cycle in the part of the period.
 3. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section changes the first negative pressure a plurality of times in the part of the period by intermittently turning the negative pressure section on and off.
 4. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the negative pressure section comprises a negative pressure pump and a negative pressure valve; and the negative pressure controlling section controls the negative pressure pump and controls opening and closing of the negative pressure valve to change the level of the first negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor using a predetermined pattern.
 5. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section releases the first negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor when the collection of blood is detected by the blood sensor, and then stops the operation of the negative pressure section when measurement of the collected blood is completed.
 6. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a first skin contact sensor that detects the skin abutting on the holder, wherein the negative pressure controlling section controls the negative pressure section to start creating a negative pressure based on an output of the first skin contact sensor.
 7. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section detects a signal that drives the negative pressure section and detects a defect or environment of the negative pressure section based on the detected signal.
 8. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section changes the level of the first negative pressure in the space near the blood sensor using a predetermined pattern, after the skin is punctured by the laser puncturing section.
 9. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the negative pressure controlling section controls the operation of the negative pressure section such that a first level of the first negative pressure after the skin is punctured is higher than a second level of the first negative pressure before the skin is punctured.
 10. The blood test apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the blood sensor and the holder are integrated to form a blood sensor unit; the blood sensor unit comprises a chassis having both ends open such that one end of the chassis is attached to an apparatus body and the other end of the chassis abuts on the skin, and the blood sensor is located such that a space in an interior of the chassis is separated into a first space closer to the apparatus body and a second space closer to the skin; and the negative pressure section creates the first negative pressure in the second space closer to the skin from the first space closer to the apparatus body via a first hole provided in the blood sensor.
 11. The blood test apparatus according to claim 10, wherein a second hole that communicates between the first space closer to the apparatus body and the second space closer to the skin is provided in the blood sensor unit.
 12. The blood test apparatus according to claim 10, wherein: the blood sensor comprises: a storing part which opens downward and stores the blood flowing out from the punctured skin; a supply channel having a first end connected to the storing part; a detecting section which is provided on the supply channel; and an air hole which is provided in a second end of the supply channel and opens upward to communicate with an outer space; and the negative pressure section creates the first negative pressure on the skin via the air hole, the supply channel and the storing part.
 13. The blood test apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the negative pressure controlling section stops the operation of the negative pressure section when it is detected that the blood has reached the detecting section.
 14. The blood test apparatus according to claim 12, wherein: a second skin contact sensor that detects that the skin is abutted, is provided in the blood sensor or an attaching part attached to the blood sensor; and the negative pressure controlling section makes the negative pressure section stop creating the negative pressure based on output of the second skin contact sensor.
 15. The blood test apparatus according to claim 10, wherein an attaching part to which the blood sensor is attached, is provided in the blood sensor unit, and a negative pressure path is provided in the attaching part.
 16. The blood test apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the negative pressure controlling section stops the operation of the negative pressure section when measurement of the collected blood is complete. 